Rapid and high yield Extraction method for Saponins from Safed musli

Objectives: We aimed to develop, compare and optimise rapid and high yield extraction method for saponins of Safed musli using conventional extraction techniques and as well as modern microwave assisted solvent extraction method. Materials and methods: Roots of Safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum) are extracted by maceration, soxhlet, sonication and microwave methods. Extract further fractionated to obtain total saponins. Microwave assisted solvent extraction (MASE) method is optimised using Taguchi L9 orthogonal array design. Total saponins are estimated by High Performance Thin Layer chromatography (HPTLC) from all extracts obtained by different methods. Results: Factors namely temperature, irradiation time, irradiation power and powder size which potentially affects extraction efficiency are considered while optimizing MASE by statistical orthogonal array design procedure and saponins are quantified using HPTLC. Under developed optimum conditions, MASE showed significantly higher yield (5.11%) and drastic reduction in extraction time (4 min) than conventional extraction methods. Conclusion: Saponins of Safed musli shown highest yield in MASE and then maceration, soxhlet and sonication followed. The developed and optimised method of saponin extraction by MASE can have huge industrial applications after scale up.