In this paper, strategies for the efficient utilization of plant materials are presented through a holistic process analysis of one of the most critical upstream units in the wellness industry. The case study focuses on the extraction of andrographolide phytochemical obtained from the complex solid matrix of Andrographis paniculata. It is one of the most commercially significant specialty products. Phytochemicals are typically derived from plant-based raw material resources such as roots, bark, stems, leaves, flowers, and seeds through solid–liquid extraction (SLE) at the upstream section of the industry. This study utilizes new schemes for complete process analysis of SLE alongside novel tools in the form of equations based on the concept of extraction selectivity (ES) that can serve as performance indicators. These decision-making tools enable evaluation of both green and non‑green processes, guide the design and development of solid–liquid extractors, and facilitate rapid profitability assessments. They complement the incapabilities of the well-known overall yield metric based on the concept of extraction yield (EY). The upstream section comprises unit procedures and operations such as solid–liquid extractors, evaporators for concentrating liquid extracts, and spray dryers for producing powdered extracts. Ultimately, solid–liquid extractor is regarded as the hearth of the wellness industry. This is because if SLE is not well understood, carefully handled, monitored, and controlled, the integrity of the entire industry would be in jeopardy, affecting both intermediate and finished products
Abubakar et al. (Sat,) studied this question.