Comparative Evaluation/Optimization of Soxhlet, Ultrasonic and Microwave Assisted Extraction of Ficus religiosa Linn.

Plant derived Phytochemicals have been the focus of recent research due to their health promoting effects. Previous studies to estimate the leaves of these bioactive compounds made use of traditional extraction procedures. Recently modern techniques (such as ultrasonication and microwave) has been shown to be an efficient non thermal extraction method. The purpose of this study was to compare three methods of extraction (soxhlet, ultrasonication and microwave assisted extraction) for Ficus religiosa Linn. (Stem bark) phenolic contents and to determine optimal conditions (solvent, time, temperature and power) for their extraction. The yields obtained by ultrasonication and microwave extraction were found to be higher than soxhlet extraction. The total phenolic compounds were found to be higher in soxhlet extraction compared to modern techniques. Due to considerable saving of time and high extraction efficiency, Microwave assisted extraction and ultrasonication under specific conditions can be used successfully for extraction of phytoconstituents.