Extractive methods and isolation of aristolochic acid from natural matrices

Abstract

Introduction: Medicinal plants from the Aristolochia genus have traditionally been employed to treat various pathologies. However, these plants are known to contain substantial quantities of aristolochic acids, both type I and II, which have been linked to the development of nephropathies and high-risk cancers due to their inherent toxicity. Thus, the utilization of these plants is considered a serious health risk for individuals.

Methods: This study aimed to identify effective extraction and isolation methods for aristolochic acid from natural matrices to obtain a standardized extract of the Aristolochia plant. The Zaragoza liana (Aristolochia) from Puyo and Macas- Ecuador, was selected for analysis. The extraction methods employed included supercritical fluids and ultrasound-assisted extraction, with methanol as the solvent. Subsequently, metabolites obtained from these processes were identified using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) to confirm the presence of aristolochic acid.

Results: The outcomes revealed that aristolochic acid exhibited a retention factor within Rf 0.61-0.77. These results were observable through yellow-colored bands under white light, appearing dark or gray under UV light of 254 nm and displaying black coloration with a yellow halo under UV light of 366 nm. These distinctive characteristics provided conclusive evidence of the presence of aristolochic acid in the analyzed samples.

Conclusion: This study has established effective methods for extracting and isolating aristolochic acid from Aristolochia plants. The results obtained through thin-layer chromatography confirm the presence of this compound in the analyzed samples, underscoring the concern regarding the toxicity associated with these medicinal plants. These findings emphasize the importance of standardizing Aristolochia extracts and highlight the potential risks linked to their consumption in human health.