Characterization of Secondary Metabolites from Various Solvent Extracts of Saffron Floral Waste

Abstract

Isolation of secondary metabolites from saffron flower waste (stamens), and their identification using chromatographic techniques was carried out. Extraction was carried out with solvents (methanol, ethanol, ethyl acetate, diethylether and hexane) with different polarity. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) technique was used for identification and structure elucidation of secondary metabolites obtained from saffron flower stamens. Chromatogram of ethanol showed higher peak area as compared to other solvents. Ethanol extract showed maximum number of peaks while chromatogram of hexane extract showed minimum number of peaks indicating that polarity of the solvent plays an important role in the extraction process. GC-MS analysis confirmed presence of many important compounds in saffron stamens such as atocopherol or vitamin E, dibutyl para-cresol, hydroquinone, and certain esters.

Bioactive Compounds from Organic Waste

“…Considering this residue's decomposition is slower than other organic residues [117], the interest in studying their potential use as a source of bioactive compounds and incorporation in industrial processes has increased. Flowers contain proteins, carbohydrates, saturated and unsaturated lipids, carotenoids, flavonoids, organic acids, phenols, alkaloids, and terpenoids, as well as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants [37,118,119], making them an attractive source of bioactive compounds (Figure 4). Additionally, flowers are used within medicinal practice given the therapeutic properties of their essential oils, water, and decoctions [120].…”