Green solvent-based cold maceration for phytochemical extraction of Monoon longifolium (Sonn.) B.Xue & R.M.K Saunders Leaves: A novel eco-friendly approach

Abstract

Monoon longifolium (Sonn.) B.Xue & R.M.K Saunders (Ashoka), a prominent medicinal plant in Ayurvedic formulations, has gained scientific attention for its extensive pharmacological properties including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer activities. However, conventional extraction procedures employing volatile organic solvents pose ecological and health risks. This study presents a novel, green, and sustainable technique employing Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) for cold maceration-based extraction of phytochemicals from Monoon longifolium (Sonn.) B.Xue & R.M.K Saunders leaves. A NADES system prepared using choline chloride and glycerol (1:2 molar ratio) was utilized to extract bio actives under ambient conditions over 72 hours. Qualitative phytochemical analysis confirmed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolics, and tannins in the NADES extract. The extraction yield (13.6% w/w) exceeded that of ethanol-based extractions. This research introduces an unexplored and environmentally safe methodology for phytochemical retrieval from Monoon longifolium (Sonn.) B.Xue & R.M.K Saunders, highlighting the potential of NADES in green extraction technologies.