Polyalcohols as Hydrogen-Bonding Donors in Choline Chloride-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents for Extraction of Xanthones from the Pericarp of Garcinia mangostana L.

Can humble agricultural waste hold the secret to greener, safer extraction of powerful antioxidants? Researchers are unlocking this potential by redesigning molecular solvents.

Mangosteen pericarp is a treasure trove of xanthones—potent antioxidants prized for health supplements and food additives. To extract these valuable compounds sustainably, scientists turned to deep eutectic solvents built from choline chloride paired with various polyalcohols acting as hydrogen-bonding donors. By fine-tuning the molecular structures of these polyalcohols, researchers precisely adjusted critical solvent properties like polarity and viscosity.

When deploying solvents featuring 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, and 1,2-butanediol at a 1:3 mole ratio, the team struck gold, achieving peak extraction yields of up to 2.63% for alpha-mangostin. Interestingly, these top-performing systems share intermediate polarity values strikingly similar to ethanol.

Ultimately, the choline chloride and 1,2-propanediol mixture emerges as a stellar designer solvent. With negligible vapor pressure, GRAS-rated components allowing direct extract utilization, and a knack for transforming agricultural waste into valuable bioactive resources, it points the way toward truly green chemical extraction.

Key Points

• Polyalcohol-based deep eutectic solvents extract mangosteen xanthones effectively
• 1,2-propanediol DES delivers top alpha-mangostin yield
• Solvents feature safe components and green agricultural utility