Development Of Novel TLC Method for Separation of Glycyrrhizic Acid from Aqueous Extract of Glycyrrhiza Glabra

This study aimed at exploring the use of non-hazardous, sustainable solvents adhering to the principles of Green Chemistry for performing Thin Layer Chromatographic elution of Glycyrrhizic acid from aqueous extract of Liquorice. Despite its broad therapeutic potential, the pharmaceutical industry still faces challenges in accurate separation and quantification of Glycyrrhizic acid. Current methods rely on the use of hazardous, toxic chemicals such as methanol, formic acid and chlorinated solvents like chloroform raising concerns about environmental safety. Recent advancements have emphasized on developing analytical techniques on the principles of green chemistry while ensuring analytical accuracy. The absence of a green and reproducible method for Glycyrrhizic acid separation highlights the need for development of a green analytical method. After using a wide range of solvent mixtures, this study found that using a combination of n-Butanol: Acetic acid: Toluene in the ratio of 4.2:0.2:0.4 volume/volume, resulted in the separation of extract mixture into 3 distinct components indicating accurate separation. Resulting Rf of components was found to be Rf1 = 0.7, Rf2 = 0.59, Rf3 = 0.27. This study has both pharmaceutical and environmental implications. The use of n-Butanol: Acetic acid: Toluene as a solvent system proves that accurate separation of Glycyrrhizic acid can be achieved using green solvents. This study aligns with the principles of Green Chemistry offering a safer method to develop chromatographic techniques.