Extracts of passion fruit and uses thereof
View Patent ↗An extract of passion fruit is prepared. The extract has the effect of lowering blood pressure and serum nitric oxide levels in mammals. The extract also provides a hepatoprotective effect, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in mammals. A novel compound was identified in the extract and given the name edulilic acid.
1. A method of preparing a passion fruit extract containing edulilic acid, comprising the steps of:
(a) extracting the passion fruit with water to provide an aqueous extract and a solid residue;
(b) contacting the aqueous extract with a non-ionic polymeric matrix resin to adsorb at least edulilic acid from the aqueous extract; and
(c) eluting the at least edulilic acid from the matrix to obtain said passion fruit extract.
2. A method as defined in claim 1 , wherein the elution step uses an organic solvent.
3. A method as defined in claim 2 , wherein the organic solvent is selected from the group consisting of ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, methanol, 1-propanol, and acetone.
4. A method as defined in claim 1 , further comprising the step of washing the polymeric matrix with water after contact with the aqueous extract and prior to the elution step.
5. A method according to claim 1 , wherein only the passion fruit skin is used.