Influence of environmental factors on α-tocopherol levels in Moringa oleifera extracts

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Mo) seed and leaf extracts have shown promise as innovative cosmetic ingredients. First, this study examines extraction yield and chemical composition, using four techniques: supercritical carbon dioxide fluid extraction (SFE-CO₂), SFE-CO₂ with ethanol (EtOH), Soxhlet (SOX), and maceration (MAC). Among these, SFE-CO₂-EtOH achieved the highest yields, while SFE-CO₂ was most effective for extracting α-tocopherol from leaves and oleic and behenic acids from seeds, compounds valued for their antioxidant and emollient properties in cosmetics. Additionally, to assess the environmental impact on the plants and its influence on extraction outcomes, SFE-CO₂ leaf extracts were analysed across three harvest years. The α-tocopherol content (expressed relative to the mass of extract) showed considerable variability: approximately 148 mg∙g⁻¹ in 2021, 30.2 mg∙g⁻¹ in 2022, and 232.5 mg∙g⁻¹ in 2023. These fluctuations correlate with precipitation levels, as excessive rainfall in 2022 lowered yields, while low rainfall, combined with high humidity and mild temperatures in 2021 and 2023 promoted higher yields. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified precipitation and humidity as major factors influencing extraction yield and compound selectivity, while average temperatures remained stable. Overall, this study highlights the significant influence of environmental factors on the quality of Mo extracts and underscores the necessity of standardisation to achieve consistent levels of bioactive compounds. Implementing strategies such as controlled cultivation practices or use of standardised compounds is essential to ensure the production of extracts that meet the safety and efficacy standards required for cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications. • Moringa leaf and seed extracts were analysed as potential cosmetic ingredients. • Four extraction methods were compared for extracting α-tocopherol and fatty acids. • α-Tocopherol from Moringa leaves was extracted most efficiently using SFE-CO₂. • Statistical analysis identified precipitation and humidity as key factors for extraction yields. • Lower precipitation conditions favored the extraction content of α-tocopherol.