Optimisation of the extraction process and cultivar selection as a key to obtaining a high-quality extract from elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Choosing the most suitable extraction conditions and cultivar of raw material is crucial for obtaining an extract with the best health-promoting properties. The aim of this study was to optimise the extraction conditions for elderberries (Sambucus nigra) using the response surface methodology – the Box-Behnken design. The aim of the optimisation was to obtain an extract with the highest polyphenol content assessed by using Folin-Ciocalteu assay (TPC). The selected parameters yielded the richest extract in polyphenols. An optimised extraction method was used to obtain extracts from 12 elderberry cultivars. The obtained extracts were characterised in terms of antioxidant activity (DPPH, CUPRAC, FRAP, ABTS), TPC, and content of cyanidin 3-glucoside and cyanidin 3-sambubioside – determined by validated HPLC method. The study showed that the number of extraction cycles and the methanol content in the extraction mixture have a significant effect on the content of active compounds. Elderberry cultivars differ significantly in their content of active compounds, leading to significant differences in antioxidant activity.

Funding This research was funded by National Science Center, Poland, under the Preludium BIS grant (number 2020/39/O/NZ7/03441).

Publication History

Article published online:
16 November 2023