Optimization of almond leaf extraction process using response surface approach and evaluation of its antioxidant effect

One of the important sources of antioxidants is medicinal plants. Because of the toxicity and adverse effects of synthetic antioxidants in foods, the need for natural antioxidants from plants with less toxicity and higher efficiency is seriously important. In the present study, the extraction process was done according to the ethanol solvent method. This research aims to optimize the extraction efficiency of the almond leaf by ultrasound wave. Finally, the optimum sample of almond leaf extract was determined. Then, this sample was studied at different concentrations (200,400,800 ppm) and compared to synthetic antioxidants (BHT) in term of the concentration of phenolic compounds and inhibition activity of free radicals. The results of statistical analysis indicated that optimum conditions were as follow: 34.58 min, 48.59 ° C and 55.95% ethanol extract of the almond leaf. The highest extraction efficiency was determined to be 40.8934% under these situations.