Processes for the Extraction of Bioactives from Roots

Alkaloids

• Atropine - Found in the roots of plants in the nightshade family, such as Atropa belladonna (deadly nightshade). It has various medical applications, including as a treatment for certain types of poisonings and to dilate the pupils during eye exams.
• Reserpine - This alkaloid is found in the roots of Rauwolfia serpentina and other Rauwolfia species. It has been used in traditional medicines and also has modern medical uses, such as in the treatment of high blood pressure and some psychiatric disorders.
• Berberine - Found in the roots of plants like goldenseal and barberry, berberine has shown potential benefits for diabetes, cholesterol regulation, and other health conditions.
• Morphine - This potent opiate is found in the latex sap of the opium poppy's root system. It is used extensively in medicine for pain relief.
• Strychnine - Found in the roots of the Strychnos nux-vomica tree, strychnine is a potent poison that was formerly used as a pesticide.
• Vincristine and Vinblastine - These alkaloids are found in the roots of the Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus). They are used in chemotherapy due to their ability to inhibit cell division.

Terpenoids

• Artemisinin - This sesquiterpenoid is found in the roots and leaves of the sweet wormwood plant (Artemisia annua). It is a powerful antimalarial compound and is used in the production of some of the most effective antimalarial drugs currently available.
• Ginsenosides - These are a class of steroid glycosides, and triterpenoid saponins, found in the roots of the ginseng plant. They have been studied for a wide range of potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immune-modulating effects.
• Astragalosides - These triterpenoid saponins are found in the roots of the Astragalus plant. They have been studied for their potential immune-boosting and heart-protective effects.
• Withanolides - These are a group of steroidal lactones which constitute a major part of the ashwagandha root (Withania somnifera). They are known for their adaptogenic properties, helping the body resist physical and chemical stresses.
• Furanocoumarins - Found in the roots of many citrus plants, these terpenoid derivatives have been studied for their potential antiviral and anticancer properties.
• Paclitaxel (Taxol) - This complex diterpenoid is originally derived from the bark, but it is now more commonly synthesized from the precursors found in the roots of the yew tree. It is a powerful anti-cancer drug used in the treatment of a variety of cancers.

Flavonoids

• Isoflavones - These compounds are particularly rich in the roots of leguminous plants, especially soybeans. They function as phytoestrogens, plant compounds that can interact with estrogen receptors in animals and humans. Isoflavones are studied for potential benefits in alleviating symptoms of menopause, protecting against certain cancers, and promoting heart health.
• Hesperidin - This flavanone glycoside is found in the roots of citrus trees, among other plant parts. Hesperidin is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential cardiovascular benefits.
• Puerarin - An isoflavone found in the root of the kudzu vine (Pueraria lobata). It has been investigated for numerous potential health benefits, including effects on cardiovascular health, diabetes, and neurological conditions.
• Epimedin - Found in the roots of the Epimedium plant (also known as Horny goat weed), these flavonoids are used in traditional Chinese medicine and are being studied for potential benefits in bone health.
• Liquiritin - This is a flavone found in the roots of the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra). It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and it has also been studied for potential neuroprotective effects.
• Curcumin - This polyphenolic compound is found in the roots of the turmeric plant (Curcuma longa). It is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and is being researched for potential benefits in a wide range of conditions, from cancer to neurological diseases.

Glycosides

• Saponins - These are glycosides that form soap-like foams when mixed with water. They are found in a wide variety of plants, including the roots. Some saponins, like those found in ginseng or licorice roots, have been studied for a variety of health effects, including immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Glycyrrhizin - This glycoside is found in the roots of the licorice plant. It is much sweeter than sugar and has been used in food and traditional medicine. It has anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, but excessive consumption can lead to side effects like high blood pressure.
• Salicin - While mostly found in the bark of willow trees, it is also present in their roots.
• Digoxin - This cardiac glycoside is found in the roots of the Digitalis (foxglove) plant. It is used in medicine to treat certain heart conditions, but must be used carefully due to its narrow therapeutic index and potential for toxicity.
• Stevioside - This is a sweet glycoside found in the roots and leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. It's used as a non-caloric sweetener.

Herbal Leaf Extracts

Bark Extracts

Flower Extracts

Fruit and Vegetable

Seed Extracts

Identification of High-Value Chemicals

Develop an Optimised Extraction Protocol

Separation and Purification of Target Chemical(s)

Application Testing of Extract or Separated Components

Technoeconomic Analysis of the Process

Betulin - UNRAVEL Project

SteamBioAfrica Project

Bioactives Profiling of Tropical Trees