Abstract

The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of temperature (40-60 degrees C), pressure (10-20 MPa) and co-solvent concentration (0-2 wt.%) on extraction yield from L. rivularis leaves using ethanol-modified supercritical carbon dioxide. Extraction assays were carried out in a Process Development Unit using a Box-Behnken design. Extraction yield ranged from 14.7 to 53.1 g/kg dry substrate, with the highest value being achieved at 60 degrees C, 20 MPa and 2 wt.%. The pressure and the co-solvent concentration had a significant effect on extract recovery. To complement the analysis, recognized bioactive compounds, such as the flavonoids quercetin, kaempferol and resveratrol and the terpenes alpha-thujone, beta-caryophyllene and caryophyllene oxide were quantified in the selected extract. Antioxidant activity and the inhibition of key enzymes linked to diabetes mellitus (alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase) were exhibited by the extract. These results demonstrate the potential benefit of L. rivularis extract for human health.