Optimization of Extraction Conditions for Phytoconstituents in Citrus aurantifolia Peel: Focus on Hesperidin, Saponins and Flavonoids

Citrus aurantifolia peel is rich in phytoconstituents that have varying pharmacological activities. Standardizing extraction methods will affect the consistency of the active compound, hence influencing the consistency of the efficacy of the raw materials in natural medicine preparations. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the content of flavonoid total, hesperidin, and saponin in aqueous extracts of C. aurantiifolia peel under various extraction method conditions. Aqueous extracts were prepared by maceration at room temperature, digestion, 60°C, boiling water temperature and ultrasonication. All extracts were evaluated for phytoconstituents content, total flavonoid content (using AlCl3 reagent), hesperidin content (by TLC densitometry) and saponin content (using Liebermann-Burchard reagent). Phytochemical screening test results showed that all extracts contained flavonoids, saponins and steroids. Extract 60°C has the highest flavonoid concentration (15.51 ± 1.13 mgQE/g extract). The greatest hesperidin levels were found in boiled water (0.31 ± 0.05%). Both assays found that increased temperatures increase the extractable flavonoid components and hesperidin levels. In contrast, the unheated extract had the greatest saponin concentration (6.60 ± 0.01%). This research indicates that the extraction temperature will affect the concentration of extracted water substances. Hesperidin and saponin can be considered markers of C. aurantiifolia peel in the production of herbal preparations.