Influence of maceration, solvent types, and extraction durations on the yield of milk thistle seeds (Silybum Marianum) extraction

Abstract

ABSTRACT:

The study investigated the extraction yield of defatted Silybum marianum seed samples using maceration as the sole extraction technique. Different solvent types (methanol, ethanol, and water) and extraction durations were tested. Prior to extraction, the samples were ground and defatted with n-hexane. For each combination of solvent type, and extraction duration, the extracted mass (g of extract/g of defatted sample) was determined. The impact of each parameter on the yield was analyzed, revealing significant effects. Results showed that water-based maceration for 4 hours yielded the highest average mass of dry extract, followed by shorter durations at 2 hours. Ethanol occasionally outperformed methanol, particularly at the 2-hour mark, but methanol consistently produced lower yields across longer extraction durations. These findings emphasize the need for careful optimization of solvent type and extraction duration to maximize extraction yield. Subsequent analysis using Tukey's HSD test revealed significant differences in dry extract mass among solvents. Water yielded the highest at 2 and 4 hours, ethanol at 4 hours, and methanol at 4 hours as well.

Keywords: Silybum marianum; maceration; solvent types; plant extraction, yield analysis