Optimization of Extraction Conditions for Improving Gallic Acid and Quercetin Content in Pouteria macrophylla Fruits: A Promising Cosmetic Ingredient

Abstract

Pouteria macrophylla, also known as cutite, is an Amazonian fruit distributed in the western regions of North Brazil. Its fruits are rich in phenolic compounds, such as gallic acid (GA) and quercetin (Q), making it an excellent ingredient for cosmetic applications due to its high antioxidant activity and stability. A study optimized the extraction of GA and Q using hydroalcoholic ultrasound-assisted extracts by a central composite design, focusing on three independent variables: water-ethanol percentage (%H2O; v/v), fruit-solvent ratio (FSR; w/v), and time (t; min). Response surface methodology was used to identify the optimal conditions for maximizing gallic acid and quercetin content. Results showed antioxidant activity ranged from 1365.15 to 265.50 mg TE/mL and total phenolic compounds from 4293.7 to 897.04 mg GAE/L. A direct correlation between %H2O and FSR in the quercetin content response was observed. On the other hand, there was an inverse correlation between the FSR and the extraction of gallic acid, with a significance level of 90% (p < 0.1). The optimization of cutite hydroalcoholic extracts resulted in 10.22 ± 0.6 mg/L and 0.75 ± 0.25 mg/L for gallic acid and quercetin, respectively. Moreover, the optimized extract displayed a sun protection factor of 54, indicating its potential in cosmetic formulations and sunscreen products.