Modeling and Optimization of Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from HaloxylonScoparium Aerial Parts

The aim of this research is to optimize the extraction of phenolic compounds from the aerial parts of Haloxylonscoparium by employing ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and subsequently compare the results with those obtained through a conventional extraction method (maceration). Additionally, a novel physics-based metaheuristic optimization algorithm known as the Henry gas solubility optimizer (HGSO) is introduced to fine-tune the extraction conditions for achieving maximum phenolic compound yield. The response surface methodology (RSM) is employed to develop a mathematical model for the total phenolic compound content (TPC). Based on the optimal results obtained through HGSO for UAE method, a maximum phenolic compound yield of 191.88 mg GAE/g DM was achieved, with a solid–liquid ratio of 5 g/mL, a 60% methanol concentration, and a 40-min sonication period. While the yield obtained through maceration was 105.87 mg GAE/g DM. The TPC extracted from both UAE and maceration was quantified using LC–ESI–MS/MS analysis. Moreover, our comparative analysis unveiled that the UAE surpassed the conventional extraction method in several key aspects. Specifically, it exhibited superior performance in terms of extraction yield (outperforming the traditional method by 44%), total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activities. These comparisons were based on the results of four distinct assays: DPPH, ABTS, reducing power, and phenanthroline. Our study provides valuable insights into the correlation between phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacities. UAE not only achieved higher phenolic compound yields but also demonstrated enhanced antioxidant activity within a short extraction time. This eco-friendly method of extraction holds great potential as a source of antioxidants and finds applications in the pharmaceutical and food industries.