Elements, alkaloids and antioxidant value of Chelidonium majus L. and the extracts obtained by different extraction methods

The active components of Chelidonium majus (greater celandine) is based on its sensitive and effective biologically active agents. The active components of greater celandine extracts and, therefore, their usability depends on the extraction methods. This project was to evaluate and compare the components in the extracts obtained by different new and traditional extraction methods. The extracts were obtained by aqueous and alcoholic extraction, supercritical fluid extraction, pressing-centrifugation method, microwave extraction and were examined for alkaloids, elements, and antioxidant activity. The rhizome has the highest tannin, polyphenol, and alkaloid content, while aerial parts of the plant show the highest flavonoid contents and antioxidant activities. The extracts also contain metal ions contributing to the favourable therapeutic effects that can be mainly Cu, Fe, Mn, Cr, and Zn. The traditional pressed extracts rich in alkaloids confirm their usage for the treatment of warts and these extracts also contain Cu and Fe in concentrations that are effective against viruses.