Bioactive compounds from bay leaves (Laurus nobilis) extracted by microwave technology

摘要

Laurus nobilis leaves contain flavored and bioactive components with relevant biological properties for human health that are attributed to an abundant presence of highly bioactive secondary metabolites. However, the separation process for these bioactive molecules from plant matrix is seriously limited by the presence of a physical barrier (cell wall). Thus, the use of novel extraction procedures to enhance their release is particularly important. In this work, the potential use of microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) as a tool to improve the extraction efficiency of bioactive compounds from bay leaves and their characterization was evaluated. The effects of irradiation time (3, 6 and 9 min) and aqueous ethanol concentration (0, 25 and 50%) on the extraction of phenolic compounds were evaluated. A response surface methodology was applied to determine the best extraction conditions by MAE. The maximum total phenolic compound under the best conditions (9 min time irradiation and aqueous ethanol 50%) was 10.63±0.91 mg gallic acid equivalent/g plant using MAE. Also, the antioxidant potential of the extracts obtained was evaluated.