Processing of Lovage into High-Value Components Using Supercritical CO2 and Pressurized Liquid Extraction

Lovage roots, leaves, and stems were extracted by supercritical carbon dioxide (SFE‐CO2), while the residues of SFE‐CO2 were further extracted by pressurized liquid extraction with acetone and methanol. Optimization of SFE‐CO2 parameters resulted in enhanced extract yields from all lovage parts. The antioxidant potential of solid material and extracts was assessed by Trolox‐equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) in two different assays and by the total phenolic content (TPC). TEAC and TPC values of SFE‐CO2 residues were distinctly lower than those of the initial lovage material which indicates that lovage antioxidants are distributed both in lipophilic and fat‐insoluble fractions. High‐pressure techniques, namely supercritical CO2 and pressurized liquid extraction, demonstrate the potential to significantly increase the efficiency of processing of different anatomical parts of lovage into high‐value fractions based on their solubility in nonpolar (CO2) and protonic (methanol/water) solvents under supercritical and subcritical conditions.