The Open Complementary Medicine Journal

2009, 1 : 46-50
Published online 2009 March 25. DOI: 10.2174/1876391X00901010046
Publisher ID: TOALTMEDJ-1-46

Optimization of Conditions for Charantin Extraction in PEG/Salt Aqueous Two-Phase Systems Using Response Surface Methodology

Chunchao Han and Jihui Wang
School of Pharmacy, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, P.R China.

ABSTRACT

Momordica charantia, commonly known as karela or bitter melon, is used as a vegetable in Chinese, Indian subcontinent. However, in Chinese traditional medicine, the plant is usually used as an antidiabetic agent. One of the active components is charantin. Aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) were used for the purifying saponin because of their low cost. ATPS can reduce amount of organic solvent and the danger of explosion necessitates special equipment leading to increased costs. The levels of blood glucose decreased after administration of charantin purified from Momordica charantia with (ATPS (p<0.05).

Keywords:

Momordica charantia, charantin, ATPS, RSM, extraction.