optimization of microwave-assisted extraction process for flavonoids from avicennia marina stem using response surface methodology

Flavonoids, recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, are extensively utilized in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic applications. however, conventional extraction methods are often inefficient, prompting the need for greener and more effective techniques. the aim of this study was to optimize microwave-assisted extraction (mae) parameters for flavonoid recovery from avicennia marina leaves using response surface methodology (rsm). a quadratic model was developed to predict flavonoid yield under varying microwave power (300-700 w), extraction time (5-15 min), and solvent-to-solid ratio (10-40 ml/g). the model demonstrated moderate predictive capability (r² = 0.646), explaining 64.6% of yield variability, while the remaining 35.4% may be attributed to unmeasured factors such as leaf age heterogeneity or minor phytochemical interactions. notably, this green extraction approach exclusively employed water as solvent, eliminating hazardous organic solvents, and achieved maximum yields at energy-efficient conditions (500 w, 10 min, 25:1 ml/g) which reduce power consumption by 30% compared to conventional high-power mae methods. the optimized protocol balances extraction efficiency with environmental sustainability, offering a cleaner alternative for flavonoid production from mangrove resources.