Study on optimization of extraction of total alkaloids from maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) cultivated in Yunnan

Extraction process of total alkaloids from maca (Lepidium meyenii walp.) cultivated in Yunnan was investigated. With hot water as extraction solvent, the effect of extraction temperature, extraction time and solid -liquid ratio on the yield of total alkaloids were optimized and the best extraction conditions were determined with single factor test followed by three factor-three level orthogonal experiment. The results showed that the effect of the investigated factors on the total alkaloids extraction yield was in the order as:extraction time>solid-liquid ratio>extraction temperature. The optimal extraction conditions were that solid-liquid ratio of 1:20 (g:mL) , extraction temperature of 70℃ and extraction time of 100min. Under these conditions the total alkaloids extraction yield was 1. 58%.