Use of emerging technologies in the extraction of lupeol, α-amyrin and β-amyrin from sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera L.)

Emerging technologies are being explored to improve extraction yields of phytochemicals or high-value biological compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the extraction of lupeol, α-, and β-amyrin from fruit, leaf and stem of the sea grape tree ( Coccoloba uvifera L.) using technologies such as Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (UAE) and High Hydrostatic Pressure Extraction (HHPE). Results were compared to conventional extraction (maceration). Analysis with thin-layer chromatography revealed the presence of lupeol in all studied parts of the tree. Optimal extraction conditions for UAE and HHPE were found; the highest concentration of triterpenes was obtained by UAE after evaluating conventional and non-conventional techniques. Finally, analysis of different tree parts and other vegetable sources showed that the best source of triterpenes was the leaf.