Extracts of compounds fromMoringa oleifera leaves were obtained by supercritical extraction with CO 2 using ethanol as a cosolvent (scCO 2 + EtOH). The experimental conditions were investigated by varying temperature (35-80 C), pressure (15-25 MPa), and mass ratio between ethanol and raw material. The phenolic acids (gallic, vanillic, and p-coumaric acids) and flavonoids (catechin) were identified in all extracts, except for the extract obtained without the cosolvent. The main compounds by GC-MS were 1-triacontanol, nonacosane, heptacosane, phytol, γ-tocopherol, and α-tocopherol. Extracts obtained at 35 C showed the highest values of total phenolic compounds, DPPH, and FRAP, however, the lowest extraction yield. The central point extraction conditions (60 C and 20 MPa) had the best-combined results for yield (4.4%), total phenolic compounds (24 ± 1 mg GAE/g), DPPH (77 ± 2 μmol Trolox/g), FRAP (265 ± 9 μmol Trolox/g) and the presence of bioactive compounds.
Practical ApplicationsSupercritical fluid extraction with CO 2 is a clean technology that employs low temperatures, producing high-quality extracts. Moringa oleifera leaf extracts showed different compositions according to the experimental conditions evaluated. The use of ethanol as a cosolvent and high temperatures positively influenced the extraction yield. All extracts showed antioxidant potential. Catechin, gallic, vanillic, and pcoumaric acids were the main phenolic compounds. The extract obtained at the central point condition had better antioxidant potential, yield, and bioactive compounds.