Optimum Extraction of Polysaccharide from Areca catechu Using Response Surface Methodology and its Antioxidant Activity

This study was designed to investigate optimum extraction of polysaccharide from seeds of Areca catechu (AUP) and explore its antioxidant activity. Response surface methodology was performed to investigate optimum extraction parameters of AUP. The AUP was precipitated into four crude polysaccharides (AUP20, AUP40, AUP60, AUP80) by different concentrations of ethanol, respectively, then basic characteristics and antioxidant activities of AUPs were assayed. The results indicated optimum process of AUP extraction was as follows: extraction time 1.5 h, ratio of water to raw material 30 mL/g, and extraction two times. Furthermore, the range of AUP molecular weight was approximately 1.84 × 104–4.79 × 105 g/mol. AUPs were composed of mannose, glucose, galactose, and arabinose with different molar ratios, respectively. In particular, our study also indicated AUP80 had the strongest antioxidant activity. Practical Applications There is no report regarding the polysaccharide in seeds of Areca catechu, therefore, it is of great significance to investigate the characteristics and activities of these polysaccharide. A study is necessary to find the optimum extraction conditions to obtain a desirable yield with antioxidant activity for the A. catechu polysaccharide (AUP). Our investigation could provide a scientific basis for the use of polysaccharide in seeds of A. catechu in the future. Collectively, AUPs are promising candidates for developing as natural antioxidants.