Optimization of the extraction of bioactive compounds from the leaves of Campomanesia sessiliflora (O. Berg) Mattos: Standardizing the utilization of a new resource

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants that produce a secondary metabolite continues to grow along with population growth. One of these species is Campomanesia sessiliflora (O. Berg) Mattos. The literature reports that C. sessiliflora is rich in phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which possess high anti-aging activity and can be utilized in the cosmetic and food industries. Optimizing the extraction of bioactive compounds from this plant is crucial for its industrial application. Currently, Campomanesia sessiliflora leaves are discarded as pruning waste. The evaluation of secondary metabolites from C. sessiliflora leaves is essential to making their use feasible for obtaining antioxidant and photoprotective extracts. This study aims to optimize the extraction of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, chlorophyll α, chlorophyll β, and carotenoids, as well as evaluate the antioxidant potential, sun protection factor (SPF), and the ultraviolet region scans of the leaf extracts. Liquid chromatography with a diode array detector was used to identify chemical compounds. The extracts were evaluated using different plant-to-solvent ratios and varying ethanol concentrations in water. A correlation test was conducted between the spectrophotometric profile and the levels of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and the antioxidant potential of C. sessiliflora leaf extracts. Results showed a positive correlation between ethanol levels and the presence of chlorophyll α, chlorophyll β, carotenoids, and flavonoids. Additionally, a correlation was found between antioxidant potential, SPF, and phenolic compound content. Statistical analyses indicate that the ethanol concentration in water is more significantly relevant than the different plant-to-solvent proportions. Gallic acid, syringic acid, catechin, epicatechin, and rutin were identified in all samples. Absorption at the 260 nm wavelength can be used for extract quality control. Regarding the monitored parameters, the best extract was obtained using 2 % leaves in 25 % ethanol in water.