Análisis comparativo de métodos de extracción de metabolitos secundarios producidos por tres especies de plantas medicinales nativas del Ecuador

Abstract

The need to carry out sustained scientific studies on the biological activities of the bioactive components of medicinal plants will undoubtedly allow the advancement of science in Ecuador, since many of these plants are used as an alternative to medicines, but there is still no complete characterization of their phytochemical potential in the country. Based on this problem, and taking into account the initial stages of recognition of bioactive compounds of medicinal plants, this study was based on the comparative analysis of literature corresponding to the methods of extraction of secondary metabolites of Borage (Borago officinalis), Essence of Rose (Pelargonium graveolens) and Paico (Dysphania ambrosioides) plants native to Ecuador, which worldwide have been characterized and used in industries for the development of perfumes, cosmetics and in general products containing their bioactive compounds. This bibliographic review presents results and important information of investigations that compare certain extraction techniques such as: Hydrodistillation, Soxhlet, Ultrasound, microwaves and supercritical fluids. In addition, summary tables of the bioactive compounds responsible for pharmacological actions and In vivo and In vitro assays that have been carried out with Borage, Rose Essence and Paico extracts are presented. In order to focus this work, we have chosen in particular studies that demonstrate the antioxidant and antimicrobial action present in the constituents of the plants under study. The analysis presented in this review aims to become an explanatory information tool for researchers wishing to perform secondary metabolite extractions in general with medicinal plants.