Optimization of Extraction Conditions for Phenolic Compounds from Myrtus Communis L. Leaves Using Multiple Response Surface Methodology

Secondary metabolites of Algerian myrtle aerial organs, such as polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids, have shown a potentially positive effect on human health. Efficient extraction methods must be used to obtain maximum quantities of these beneficial compounds from common myrtle. In this respect, the aim of this work was to develop an extraction procedure using response surface methodology (RSM), in order to evaluate the extraction yield and total phenolic compound (TPC) content of Myrtus communis L. leaves. Extraction of the latter and of the response variables was optimized by means of a Box-Behnken design (BBD), which was carried out according to the effect of ethanol/water ratio, temperature, extraction duration and extraction time. The optimum conditions obtained with the established method were 75% (v/v), 70°C and 150 min. The results revealed an optimum yield of leaf extracts with a predicted value of 28%. Subsequently, the maximum conditions enabled us to achieve a higher total polyphenol recovery of 271.35 mg Eq AG/g E. In conclusion, the extraction yield and quantity of secondary substances of myrtle extracts can be improved when appropriate extraction conditions are applied.