Kaohsiung Medical University / Prof.Horng-Huey Ko

 Pain Points Solved 

• Conventional herbal extraction methods rely heavily on organic solvents, leading to environmental pollution and potential health risks for operators.

• Traditional extraction processes are energy-intensive and inefficient, hindering the development of sustainable and green chemical processes.

• Active compounds are prone to degradation during conventional processing, which negatively affects their efficacy in end-use applications.

 Technology Introduction 

Green chemistry aims to reduce or eliminate the impact of chemicals and processes on the environment and human health. Its significance includes environmental protection, risk reduction for human health, energy efficiency, resource sustainability, and economic benefits. It is a crucial direction for the future of the chemical industry and is closely related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This technology reveals a green extraction method—solvent-free microwave hydrodiffusion and gravity extraction (SF-MHG)—for obtaining a highly active solvent-free microwave extract (SFMHG-E) from the traditional medicinal herb Phyla nodiflora (L.) Greene (PN). Compared to conventional solvent extraction methods, this extraction process eliminates the need for organic solvents, achieving energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, and reducing health risks for operators. The active extract SFMHG-E exhibits excellent antioxidant properties, while its polar fractionations 4 and 5 demonstrate protective effects against oxidative damage to the skin caused by airborne particulate pollutants.

Therefore, this invention applies the principles of green chemistry by utilizing solvent-free microwave extraction technology to obtain highly active compounds from Phyla nodiflora. This method not only enhances extraction efficiency but also reduces energy consumption and environmental pollution. Furthermore, the technology aligns with the development of sustainable chemical processes, demonstrating its potential applications in the cosmetics, green chemical, and biotechnology industries.

Figure.Solvent-Free Microwave Extraction Device Diagram

Figure.Mechanism Diagram of Phyla nodiflora Greene Extract in Preventing PM2.5-Induced Skin Damage

 Application Examples 

• Applied in cosmetic products as a natural ingredient with antioxidant properties and protective effects against skin damage caused by airborne particulate pollutants.

• Integrated into green chemical processes to develop solvent-free, high-efficiency plant extraction products.

• Utilized in the biotechnology industry to enhance the safety, stability, and added value of bioactive compounds derived from natural sources.

 Related Links 

None

 Patent Name and Number 

TW 112139557

 Industry-Academia / Tech Transfer Partner 

None

 Honors and Awards  

None

 Technical Contact  

Mr. Hung, Assistant Manager

Kaohsiung Medical University 
Tel: +886 7-3121101 ext. 2360
Email: R121084@kmu.edu.tw