EXTRACTION AND PURIFICATION

Question 1

solvent extraction

Answer 1

separation proces using a liquid to extract compounds from a solid

Question 2

improve extraction efficiency

Answer 2

• grinding or blending plant material (increases surface area)
• gentle heating if compounds are heat stable

Question 3

steam distillation

Answer 3

extracts medicinal compounds using steam

Question 4

steam distillation process

Answer 4

1. steam breaks down plant cells and carries away volitile oils
2. steam and oils are condensed with non-polar oilds separating from water
3. results in plant oils that are mixtures not pure substances
4. once extracted, active molecules require separation and identification

Question 5

steam distillation is ideal for…

Answer 5

volitile and thermally stable active ingredients

Question 6

factors to consider after isolating the active ingredient in commercial production

Answer 6

• structure of the active ingredient to decide the best way to produce it commercially
• mollecule needs to be tested to establish efficacy and how it needs to be administered
• storage life and handling procedures to determine if there are any negative side-affects