Background: Extraction conditions greatly affect composition, as well as biological activity. Therefore, optimization is essential for maximum efficacy.
Methods: Korean Red Ginseng (KRG) was extracted under different conditions and antioxidant activity, extraction yield, and ginsenoside Rg1 and phenolic content evaluated. Optimized extraction conditions were suggested using response surface methodology for maximum antioxidant activity and extraction yield.
Results: Analysis of KRG extraction conditions using response surface methodology showed a good fit of experimental data as demonstrated by regression analysis. Among extraction factors, such as extraction solvent and extraction time and temperature, ethanol concentration greatly affected antioxidant activity, extraction yield, and ginsenoside Rg1 and phenolic content. The optimal conditions for maximum antioxidant activity and extraction yield were an ethanol concentration of 48.8%, an extraction time 73.3 min, and an extraction temperature of 90°C. The antioxidant activity and extraction yield under optimal conditions were 43.7% and 23.2% of dried KRG, respectively.
Conclusion: Ethanol concentration is an important extraction factor for KRG antioxidant activity and extraction yield. Optimized extraction conditions provide useful economic advantages in KRG development for functional products.
Keywords: Panax ginseng (Korean Red Ginseng); antioxidant activity; extraction conditions; extraction yield; optimization.