Extraction of shikimic acid and and anise oil from Illicium verum Hook. f. using steam distillation method

ObjectiveThis study aimed to improve the added value of the industry of Illicium verum Hook. f.MethodsThe anise oil in I. verum was separated by steam distillation, and the high-purity shikimic acid was obtained from the crude by ion exchange. During the distillation process, parameters such as particle size of I. verum powder, material liquid ratio, and number of steam distillation times were determined. In the separation and purification process of shikimic acid, single factor experiments and response surface methodology were used to optimize the pH of the sample solution, elution flow rate, and volume fraction of HCl of the elution solution. The steam distillation method was compared with the thermal reflux method.ResultsThe yield of anise oil reached 13.55% with the particle size of I. verum powder (100 mesh), the material liquid ratio 1∶15 (g/mL), and steam distillation twice; In the ion exchange purification process, when the pH of the sample solution was 4.0, the elution flow rate was 27 mL/h, and the volume fraction of HCl of the eluent was 4.40%, the yield and purity of shikimic acid reached 11.05% and 98.50%, respectively; The steam distillation method had more industrial value.ConclusionThis method achieved the goal of high-yield rate comprehensive extraction of two active ingredients.