Comparative characteristics of methods of extraction of wild-growing raw materials of Northern Kazakhstan

Abstract

Plant polyphenols are an important group of bioactive compounds with pronounced antioxidant properties. They are able to neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and prevent the development of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and inflammatory pathologies. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of various methods for extracting the total amount of phenolic compounds from three types of medicinal plants: sweet clover (Melilotus officinalis), St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) and purslane (Portulaca oleracea). Three methods were considered in the work: maceration, percolation (using the Soxlet apparatus) and extraction using curd whey as an environmentally friendly solvent. The parameters of temperature, hydraulic module and processing time were studied and optimized. Experimental data have shown that the highest content of phenolic compounds is achieved using the percolation method with 70% ethyl alcohol. Despite the use of curd whey provides a lower yield of polyphenols, this method has the advantages of environmental safety and the possibility of integration into non-alcoholic technologies. The results obtained can be used in the development of functional food products and natural antioxidant supplements with a high level of biological activity.