Optimization of microwave-assisted extraction of solanesol from potato leaves and stems

Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was developed for the fast extraction of solanesol from potato leaves and stems. The ratio of raw material to ethanol, extraction time, extraction temperature, and microwave irradiation power were interdependent. The yield of solanesol reached its maximum 98.57% with 1:8.0 g/ml, 40 min, 55°C, and 2.0 KW, respectively. MAE was comparable to other extraction methods, including solvent extraction, heat-reflux, and Soxhlet-extraction. MAE reduced extraction time, solvent consumption, and increased yields of solanesol. Solanesol concentration was performed by RP-high performance liquid chromatography. The method was rapid, simple, accurate, and reproducible.