Optimization of extraction conditions for phytochemicals from Senna fistula using cheminformatics

Abstract

Senna fistula (commonly called golden shower tree) is a tropical plant renowned for its established medicinal properties. Additionally, it serves as a popular ornamental tree for homesteads and roadside plantings. But previous phytochemical studies on the plant adopted the conventional methods of extraction without optimal yield of the plant extract. This study investigated on the phytochemistry of S. fistula leaf, stem bark and flower using ethanol, aqueous and palm wine extracts. Also, optimization of extraction with the aid of design expert was carried out to determine the extraction condition that would give the optimum yield using different solvent. Result of qualitative analysis on phytochemicals showed presence of anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, phenols, cardiac glycosides and tannins. An extraction of 10 g of S. fistula for 24 h at 300 rpm, with an orbital shaker time of 30 min, gave an optimal yield of 3.6 g. The bio-active compounds found in S. fistula are subjects of more exploratory research with usable products that can benefit mankind as the focus.