Comparison of Extraction Methods of Angelica sinensis Essential Oil Based on Chemical Composition by Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography-Time-of-Flight/Mass Spectrometry (GC × GC-TOF/MS) and Bioactivity

This study presented a comprehensive analysis of the chemical profile of Angelica sinensis essential oil (ASEO) extracted using two distinct methods: steam distillation (SD) and supercritical carbon dioxide (CO₂) extraction (SFE). Utilizing advanced two-dimensional gas chromatography-time-of-flight/mass spectrometry (GC × GC-TOF/MS), we elucidated the volatile composition of ASEO, identifying key phytochemicals that may contribute to its therapeutic properties. The analysis revealed significant differences in the qualitative and quantitative constituents between the two extraction methods, with SFE yielding a higher concentration of ingredients compared to SD. Furthermore, this study assessed the bioactivities associated with ASEO that exhibited analgesia activity, along with pronounced inhibition of pro-inflammatory markers in vitro, which demonstrated that the inhibition of peripherally nociception as well as neutrophil-dependent and independent inflammatory responses were found with ASEO. The findings not only enhance our understanding of the chemical diversity present in ASEO, but also underscore the influence of extraction techniques on the bioactive potential of ASEO, paving the way for further research into its health benefits and optimization of extraction methodologies for enhanced efficacy.