Comparison of different aqueous extraction methods for optimum extraction of polyphenols and in-vitro anti-oxidant activity from pomegranate peel

Pomegranate (Punica grantum L.) peel is the source of vast array of bioactive polyphenols that may be safely extracted using water as a solvent. Water based extraction is not only safe but also suitable for animal consumption. Objective of the present study was to compare three different aqueous extraction techniques (Continuous shaking extraction, maceration, hot water infusion) used for extraction of polyphenols and to evaluate their in-vitro antioxidant activity. Results demonstrated that hot water infusion method gives significant (P<0.05) level of antioxidant activity over others. It could be concluded that hot water infusion method of extraction is a simple, cheap and convenient method for polyphenol extraction from pomegranate peel and it might be used for further in-vivo antioxidant testing in animal models.