Effects of Accelerated Solvent Extracts from Polygonum multiflorum on Skin Whitening and β-Hexosaminidase Secretion

Purpose: Accelerated solvent extraction (ASE) is an advanced technique that enables the rapid extraction of active compounds using solvents under high temperature and pressure. Due to its high efficiency and reproducibility, ASE acts as a good tool for optimized extraction methods. In this study, we compared the extraction efficiency and biological activity of Polygonum multiflorum, a traditional medicinal herb renowned for its many pharmacological properties, using ASE and conventional reflux solvent extraction (RSE). Methods: P. multiflorum root was extracted at various ethanol concentrations using ASE, and extracts exhibiting superior antioxidant activity were identified. Thereafter, the inhibitory effects on melanin synthesis were evaluated in B16F10 melanoma cells, while the anti-allergic potential was assessed based on the reduction of β-hexosaminidase release from RBL-2H3 mast cells. Results: Extracts obtained through both ASE and RSE exhibited antioxidant activity. Notably, the 70% and 100% ethanol extracts prepared using ASE demonstrated the highest antioxidant potential among all extracts. Additionally, ASE extracts showed superior anti-glycation and tyrosinase inhibitory activity and greater inhibition of melanin synthesis in B16F10 melanoma cells compared with RSE. Furthermore, ASE treatment statistically inhibited β-hexosaminidase release, indicating its potential anti-allergic effect. Conclusion: The antioxidant, skin whitening, and antihistamine inhibitory effects of P. multiflorum roots were evaluated using both ASE and RSE methods. Overall, ASE can be suggested as a more economical, environmentally sustainable, and efficient extraction technique than conventional reflux extraction.