1.What are Plant Extracts?
Plant Extracts refer to substances extracted or processed from all or part of a plant using
appropriate solvents or methods. These extracts typically contain one or more active ingredients
from the plant while maintaining the original structure of the active ingredients. Certain
components in plant extracts possess specific effects, such as camptothecin and vincristine from
alkaloid extracts, which have a certain effect on tumor cells and cancer, flavonoid extracts like
Ginkgo biloba extract, which has antioxidant properties, and glycoside compound extracts like
amygdalin, which has the effects of relieving cough and phlegm, and lubricating the intestines and
relieving constipation. These extracts have wide applications in the pharmaceutical, healthcare,
food, and cosmetic industries, such as in the manufacturing of anticancer drugs, health supplements,
food additives, and cosmetics.
2.How are Plant Extracts classified?
Plant extracts can be classified into various categories based on the content, composition, product
form, and usage of their active ingredients. For example, based on the content of active
ingredients, they can be divided into effective monomer extracts, standard extracts, and ratio
extracts. According to their composition, they can be classified into glycosides, acids,
polyphenols, polysaccharides, terpenes, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Depending on the product form,
they can be categorized into plant oils, extracts, powders, and crystals. And finally, based on
their usage, they can be grouped into natural pigment products, traditional Chinese medicine extract
products, extract products, and concentrated products.
3.How are Plant Extracts produced?
Plant extracts are produced by initially preparing the selected plant material through cleaning,
drying, and grinding to increase surface area for efficient extraction. Extraction techniques
involve solvent extraction using solvents like water or alcohol, as well as advanced methods such as
ultrasonic, microwave, ionic liquid, and supercritical fluid extraction. After extraction, the
mixture undergoes separation and purification to remove impurities, followed by concentration and
drying to obtain the final purified plant extract product.
4.What are Plant Extracts used for in the food industry?
Adding flavour and aroma: Plant extracts can add unique flavours and aromas to foods, making them
more delicious. For example, coriander extract and ginger extract can be used to flavour foods such
as soups, sauces and roasts, giving them a stronger flavour.
Provide nutritional value: Plant extracts are rich in nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and
antioxidants. These ingredients can provide a variety of benefits to the body, such as promoting
health, boosting immunity and slowing down aging. For example, green tea extracts are rich in tea
polyphenols, which have antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects, and can be used to make tea
beverages and health supplements.
Improve stability: Plant extracts can be used to improve the stability of food products and extend
their shelf life. For example, carrot extracts can be used in fruit and vegetable juice drinks to
prevent oxidative deterioration and improve shelf life.
5.Are Plant Extracts harmful to humans?
Plant extracts, depending on the species, extraction method, and intended use, can offer numerous
health benefits such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and antibacterial properties. However,
they may also contain toxic compounds that can be harmful to humans, especially if consumed in
excessive amounts or for prolonged periods. Before using plant extracts for medicinal or other
purposes, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or expert to ensure safety and
minimize the risk of harm.
