Response Surface Methodology Driven Optimization of Domestic Microwave-assisted Extraction for Enhanced Recovery of Bioactive Compounds from Banana Flower

Background: Banana flowers (Musa spp.) have strong potential as functional foods and nutraceuticals. They are rich in antioxidants that help prevent cell damage and contain health-promoting phenolic compounds. The study aimed to optimize microwave assisted extraction (MAE), which uses microwaves to extract bioactive compounds. Methods: The optimization of the extraction process was done using response surface methodology (RSM). The box-behnken design was used. The extraction parameters were set at 360, 540 and 720 W; extraction time at 2, 4 and 6 min and solvent ratio at 1, 2 and 3 g/100 mL. These variables were analyzed in terms of extraction yield, total flavonoid content (TFC-mg QE/g), total phenolic content (TPC-mg GAE/g) and antioxidant capacity. Antioxidant capacity was measured by DPPH and ABTS assays, which assess free radical scavenging. Twenty experiments were performed. Six center points evaluated model adequacy. Result: Extraction yields ranged from 18.78% to 24.21%, TPC was 46.26-53.83 mg GAE/g and TFC was 18.87-24.05 mg QE/g. Antioxidant activity, measured by DPPH (59.64-73.07 mg TE/g) and ABTS (65.53-74.37 mg TE/g) assays, was most affected by microwave power and time, as shown by analysis of variance. Optimal extraction was at 617 W for 5.67 min and with 1.98 g/100 mL solvent. The highest recoveries of phenolics and flavonoids were achieved at 540 W, 6 min and 2 g/100 mL solvent. These findings demonstrate that optimized microwave-assisted extraction is an efficient and rapid technique for maximizing the recovery of antioxidant bioactive compounds from banana flower, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional extraction methods.