In the heart of Indonesia, researchers are unlocking the secrets of a humble rhizome, transforming it into a powerhouse of potential for the energy and pharmaceutical sectors. Niko Utama, a researcher from Universitas Brawijaya, has been delving into the world of Zingiber cassumunar, commonly known as bangle. This unassuming plant, native to Southeast Asia, is proving to be a treasure trove of phytochemicals with a range of pharmacological activities, from antioxidant and anti-inflammatory to anticancer and neuroprotective properties.
Utama’s latest study, published in Advances in Food Science, Sustainable Agriculture, and Agroindustrial Engineering, focuses on optimizing the extraction of these valuable compounds using ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). This green technology offers a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional extraction methods. “The use of ultrasound waves allows for a more thorough extraction of phytochemicals, reducing the need for harsh chemicals and excessive energy consumption,” Utama explains.
The research team employed a Box-Behnken design response surface method to model the extraction conditions. They varied the bangle-to-ethanol ratio, ethanol concentration, and extraction time to determine the optimal conditions for extracting total phenolics and antioxidant activity. The results were impressive: under the optimum conditions of a 1:45 bangle-to-ethanol ratio, 70% ethanol concentration, and 25 minutes of extraction time, they obtained total phenolic compounds of 5.48 mg GAE/g and antioxidant activity of 69.18%.
But the story doesn’t end with the extraction process. The team also identified a wealth of compounds using LC-MS/MS QTOF, including five phenolic group compounds, 11 coumarin group compounds, and 10 alkaloid group compounds. These compounds have significant potential in the energy sector, particularly in the development of bio-based products and sustainable energy solutions.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As Utama notes, “The optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction for bangle rhizome not only enhances the yield of valuable phytochemicals but also paves the way for more sustainable and efficient extraction processes in the industry.” This could lead to a reduction in energy consumption and environmental impact, making the extraction process more economically viable and eco-friendly.
Moreover, the identification of these phytochemicals opens up new avenues for research and development in the pharmaceutical and energy sectors. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these compounds could be harnessed to develop new drugs, while their potential as bio-based materials could revolutionize the energy sector.
As we look to the future, the humble bangle rhizome could play a significant role in shaping the landscape of sustainable energy and pharmaceuticals. With further research and development, the full potential of this remarkable plant could be unlocked, leading to innovative solutions for some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The journey from a small rhizome to a global game-changer is an exciting one, and it’s one that Utama and his team are at the forefront of.