Supercritical fluid extraction of bioactive compounds from walnut leaves

Abstract

The extractive efficiency of bioactive compounds from plant material is greatly depended on the extraction techniques. In this study, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) of bioactive compounds from walnut leaves was used. Work conditions of supercritical fluid extraction were pressure level at 200 bar, temperature at 50 0C and flow rate of CO2 - 20 kg/h. Efficiency of the SFE was evaluated by measuring total polyphenol content (Folin-Ciocalteu assay), reaction kinetics and reducing power of the extract towards DPPH· free radical. Walnut leaves extract obtained by supercritical fluid extraction showed the good antioxidant properties and could be used as a natural, low cost source of bioactive compounds.