Characterization and Comparative Assessment of the Essential Oil from Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) Exocarp Using Maceration and Soxhlet Extraction Methods

Abstract

Citrus fruits are a rich source of essential oils that have various applications in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries. Lime is notable for its high essential oil yield, which contains active compounds that possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. This study aimed to compare the maceration and Soxhlet extraction methods for obtaining essential oil from lime exocarp as well as characterizing the compounds in the oil using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The study found that the Soxhlet extraction method had a higher yield of oil compared to the maceration method. However, the maceration method had a lower acid value and free fatty acid content, and a higher saponification value. The oil obtained using the Soxhlet extraction method was more acidic than that of the essential oil obtained using the maceration method. The study also found that limonene was the most prominent compound in both extraction methods. However, the percentage of β-ocimene and γ-terpinene were significantly higher in the maceration method compared to the Soxhlet extraction method. Limonene, β-ocimene, and γ-terpinene are important compounds found in essential oils and have various medicinal properties. These findings have significant implications for the essential oil industry. The choice of extraction method can influence the composition of the essential oil obtained, as well as its chemical and physical properties. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the intended use of the essential oil when choosing an extraction method.