Effect of drying conditions on phytochemicals in vacuum drying

Abstract

Basil leaves scientifically proved to have phytochemicals compound which has potential of bioactivities. To preserve the quality of thisherbs, drying process must be carried out. Drying treatment and experimental method for vaccum drying was carried out at the temperatures of 45 °C, 55 °C and 65 °C to find and suggest the optimum drying condition for acquiring quality dried basil leaves and phytochemicals like uginol, caryophyll of basil leaves. Results have revealed that ‘total drying time’ is considerably reduced with the increase in drying air temperatures from 45 °C to 65 °C. It could be recommended that for the best drying temperature is 45 °C of basil leaves to retain the various phytochemicals.