The Effects of Solvent Ratio and Extraction Time on Physicochemical Characteristics of Stevia Leaf Liquid Extract Using Microwave Assisted Extraction Method

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) is one of the natural sweeteners which contains low calorie and can be used as a substitute for sugar. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of solvent ratio and extraction time to the physicochemical characteristics of stevia leaf liquid extract using microwave assisted extraction methods. The observed characteristics were yield of extraction, total soluble solids content, specific gravity and color. The method used in this research was a laboratory experiment with descriptive analysis using 3 different extraction time, which is 4, 5 and 6 minutes. The solvent ratio used in this study were 3 levels, which is 1:30; 1:35 and 1:40 (w/v). The result of this study indicated that extraction variations with material:solvent ratio of 1:30 (w/v) and extraction time of 6 minutes produced the best total soluble solid contents with a value of 2oBrix, meanwhile extraction variations with material:solvent ratio of 1:40 (w/v) and extraction time of 4 minutes produced the best  yield of extraction with a value of 87.95%.