Extraction and Evaluation of Bioactive Compounds (Anti-Stress Components) from Selected Tropical Spices using Microwave Assisted Technique

Abstract

Crude extracts (essential oils) were extracted using a microwave assisted extraction from dried Ginger, T. tetraptera, and M. myristica and subsequently evaluated. Quantitative phytochemicals and antioxidant activities were determined in the crude extracts. The saponins were found to be highest in ginger extracts (2.71) and differs significantly (p≤0.05) from other samples. Flavonoids, terpenoids, and tannins are highest in Monodora myristica with mean values of 14.33, 7.30 and 5.46 respectively but had the least in alkaloids (6.84). T. tetraptera had the highest in alkaloids and steroids with mean scores of 10.17 and 4.31 respectively and with significant differences (p≤0.05). Total phenolic compounds are highest in M. myristica (26.06) followed by ginger (23.26) and T. tetraptera (20.93). The crude extracts recorded high antioxidant activities (DPPH, FRAP, LIPID Peroxidation inhibition, and Nitric oxide scavenging activities), in relation to the control (Vit. C). The crude extract from M. myristica gave the highest DPPH value (56.61) while ginger extracts recorded the highest score for FRAP while the control (Vit. C.) had the highest lipid Peroxidation inhibition Therefore, tropical spices can be used to produce antistress nutraceutical beverages.