Advanced analytical techniques for the identification of plant derived bioactive compounds

This review takes a look at the latest ways to get and analyze plant-based compounds, with a focus on being eco-friendly and practical. Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) uses CO₂, which helps increase yields while using less solvent and keeping the plant’s molecules intact. Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) uses sound waves to break down cell walls, making it easier to recover sensitive compounds quickly and with less solvent. Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) heats the solvent directly, speeding up the process compared to traditional methods. For analyzing plant chemicals, high-resolution mass spectrometry gives detailed information about these substances and shows where they are found in plant tissues. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy can identify compound structures easily, without needing complicated setups. Traditional methods like UV–vis and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) are still valuable for quick measurements, especially when combined with data analysis. There are some challenges, too, like making sure extraction yields are consistent, keeping bioactive properties during isolation, and scaling up laboratory results for bigger production without changing the chemical makeup. New options like green solvents, including deep eutectic solvents and ionic liquids, are less toxic and biodegradable. In the future, using machine learning to model extraction processes might help move from small experiments to larger production more smoothly.