A systematic review of traditional and eco-friendly methods for extracting bioactive compounds from Citrus aurantium L. plant

Abstract

Citrus aurantium L. (C. aurantium), commonly known as bitter orange, is a rich source of bioactive compounds (BCs), including flavonoids, alkaloids, essential oils, and phenolic compounds. The various studies emphasize on the extraction of BCs from C. aurantium L. by-products, such as peels, seeds, and leaves, using both traditional and innovative eco-friendly techniques. These compounds exhibit various pharmacological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-obesity effects, making them highly valuable in traditional medicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food industries. The extraction of these BCs is a crucial process, with conventional methods like maceration, Soxhlet extraction, and steam distillation being widely used. However, these methods often present challenges such as long extraction times, high solvent use, and potential degradation of heat-sensitive compounds. To address these limitations, green extraction techniques such as ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE) have gained prominence. These techniques offer increased efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and improved preservation of BCs. Despite their advantages, comprehensive comparisons between conventional and green methods for extracting compounds from C. aurantium are limited. This systematic review critically evaluates and compares both conventional and green extraction techniques for C. aurantium L., analyzing their efficiency, practicality, and sustainability. By synthesizing existing research, this review highlights the strengths and limitations of each method, providing valuable insights for optimizing extraction processes. The review also identifies gaps in current research and suggests future directions, including the need for standardized comparisons of extraction techniques and further exploration of environmentally friendly methods to enhance the industrial application and sustainability of C. aurantium L. BCs extraction.