Patchouli Extract via Supercritical CO2 and Ethanol Co-Solvent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current patchouli essential oil extraction methods do not effectively combine volatile, phenolic, and lipid compounds, limiting their biological activity and cosmetic applications for skin and hair care.
Innovation Solution
A process involving supercritical carbon dioxide extraction with ethanol as a polar co-solvent, followed by decolorization and solubilization in fatty alcohols, to produce a patchouli extract rich in 50-80% volatile compounds, 2-5% phenolic compounds, and 15-48% lipid compounds, enhancing its biological activity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If simple distillation is used to extract patchouli essential oil, then the extraction process is simple and fast, but the extract lacks phenolic and lipid compounds, limiting its biological activity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple extraction methods (supercritical fluid extraction and solvent extraction) into a sequential process. The supercritical CO2 extraction first captures volatile compounds, then the same extract is further processed with organic solvents to extract phenolic and lipid compounds, merging the advantages of both methods in one workflow
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a continuous extraction process where the supercritical fluid extraction is followed immediately by solvent extraction without discarding the intermediate product. This continuous action ensures that all compound classes (volatile, phenolic, and lipid) are accumulated in a single final extract, maximizing biological activity
2Quantity of substance
If multiple extraction steps are used to obtain diverse compounds, then the extract contains more compound classes, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a universal extraction system where supercritical CO2 serves multiple functions: it acts as the extraction medium for volatile compounds, the carrier for the subsequent solvent extraction, and the means to concentrate all compound classes in one final product. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated extraction systems
Solution Approach 2:
The supercritical CO2 extract acts as an intermediary medium that facilitates the transfer of compounds from the plant material to the final extract. By using this intermediary, the patent avoids direct contact between plant material and multiple solvents, simplifying the process while still achieving diverse compound extraction
3Reliability
If conventional extraction methods are used, then the extract contains mainly volatile compounds, but it lacks the full spectrum of bioactive compounds for effective skin and hair care
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the extraction parameters by using supercritical conditions (high pressure and temperature) followed by controlled pressure reduction. This parameter change enables the extraction of different compound classes at different stages, with volatile compounds extracted first under supercritical conditions, then phenolic and lipid compounds extracted as the system transitions to ambient conditions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The resulting patchouli extract exhibits enhanced soothing and protective effects on the skin and hair, improving skin hydration, barrier function, and reducing signs of aging compared to conventional essential oils.
Implementation Method 1
b) A supercritical carbon dioxide extraction is carried out in the presence of ethanol at a concentration of between 60 and 80% (volume percentage), as a polar co-solvent
Implementation Method 2
A supercritical carbon dioxide extraction is carried out in the presence of ethanol at a concentration of between 60 and 80% (volume percentage), as a polar co-solvent
Implementation Method 3
The patchouli extract is collected, decolorized in the presence of activated carbon, and filtered beforehand
Implementation Method 4
d) The crude extract obtained in step c) is solubilized in a saturated or unsaturated fatty alcohol, linear or branched, containing 8 to 30 carbon atoms to obtain a crude extract concentration in the final extract of between 2 and 6% by weight
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for obtaining an extract of patchouli leaves, comprising an extraction by supercritical carbon dioxide and a co-solvent such as ethanol. The invention also relates to a patchouli extract that can be obtained by the method according to the invention, to a composition comprising such an extract, and to the cosmetic use of a composition according to the invention for skincare, scalp care and skin appendage care.