Batch extraction of zein from dry‐milled whole corn with ethanol was optimum with 70% ethanol in water, an extraction time of 30–40 min, and temperature of 50°C. High yields (60% of the zein in corn) and high zein contents in the extracted solids (50%) were obtained at a solvent‐to‐solids ratio of 8 mL of 70% ethanol/g of corn. However, zein concentration in the extract was higher at lower ratios. Multiple extraction of the same corn with fresh ethanol resulted in a yield of 85% after four extractions, whereas multiple extractions of fresh corn with the same ethanol resulted in high (15 g/L) zein concentration in the extract. Optimum conditions for batch extraction of zein were 45°C, with 68% ethanol at a solvent‐to‐solids ratio of 7.8 mL/g for an extraction time of 55 min. Column extractions were also best at 50°C and 70% ethanol; a solvent ratio of 1 mL/g resulted in high zein concentrations in the extract (17 g/L) but yields were low (20%).
In the present study, the antioxidant activity of successive leaf extracts of Dracaena reflexa was investigated using the scavenging activity on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and reducing power by ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. Methanol extract was found potent in both the assays. IC50 values of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl assay for methanol extract was 0.97 mg/ml and ferric reducing antioxidant power value for the same is 1.19. Phytochemical screening, proximate analysis and total phenolic content were also determined. Qualitative screening for phytochemical showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides and saponins. Highest phenolic content was shown by methanol extract (49.69 mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight). Proximate analysis showed moisture content (3.31%), ash content (8.02%), crude fibre (1.31%), crude fat (0.97%), total protein (3.70%), total carbohydrate (86.01) and nutritive value (367.56 kcal/100 g), which would make it a potential nutraceutical. This study suggested that Dracaena reflexa, a potential natural free radical scavenger, which could find use as an antioxidative.
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