Extraction Technologies for Medicinal and Aromatic ... - Capacity4Dev

EXTRACTION TECHNOLOGIES FOR MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS
• Multiple solvent extraction systems
• Multiple fraction collection systems
• On-line fi ltration unit
• Solvent recycling and condensing unit
• Vent lines with breather for minimizing solvent loss and maximizing
safety
• Brine circulation unit
• Fractionating column for separation of solvent mixtures
• Effi cient evaporating systems like falling fi lm, wiped fi lm or
rotary evaporators to work under low pressures
• Vacuum manifold system with cold traps
• GMP compatible
• Automation
5.9 Conclusions
Figure 12: Solvent extraction plant at CIMAP, India
Decoction, a water-based preparation, is one of the most used
traditional methodologies for the extraction of active constituents of a medicinal
plant. It is generally carried out by boiling the plant part for a fi xed
period. Hot continuous extraction or solvent extraction technique is one of
the most widely used extraction techniques for the processing of medicinal
plants. The solvent extraction method is simple, well established and economical.
Important factors that can affect the effi ciency of extraction, such
as post-harvest processing, solid characteristics, choice of solvent, method
of contact, and temperature, should be optimized for best yield. The choice
of solvent especially for commercial plants and high effi ciency usually de-
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