Novel extraction technique for L-DOPA from seeds of Mucuna pruriens

The seeds of Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. are used as a tonic and aphrodisiac for male virility in Indian traditional system of medicine. It also possesses anti-parkinsonism property possibly due to presence of L-DOPA. Earlier, attempts have been made to develop suitable methods for extraction of L-DOPA using different solvents which in turn have disadvantages like solvent costs, poor extraction efficiency and residual solvent removal. In the present study the extraction of L-DOPA from the seeds is carried out using a novel technique which involves use of well defined hydrophilic lipid Gelucire. Different grades of Gelucire (having different HLB values) like 44/14, 43/01, 50/13, 33/01 and 39/01were used for extraction of L-DOPA from the seeds. The extraction efficiency of the individual lipid was evaluated in terms of L-DOPA content. Quantification of L-dopa from different extracts was performed by HPTLC densitometry method using silica gel G60 F254 plates and scanning at absorbance mode at 282nm. The results revealed that the extracts produced by this technique were superior in terms of L-DOPA content and the method is cost effective, simple for the routine analysis.

Table 1. Comparative yield of L-DOPA from different extracts

Extracts	% Yield±SD (n=3)
Aqueous	4.21±0.10
Methanolic	3.95±0.12
Ethanol/Water (1:1)	4.68±0.17
44/14	6.40±0.17
50/13	4.51±0.35
33/01	6.26±0.11
43/01	6.93±0.13
39/01	5.21±0.21

Acknowledgements: Vice Chancellor, Bharati Vidyapeeth University and Principal, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, India

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