Optimization of Extraction Process for Total Alkaloids from Maca with Different Color Types

This study was carried out to optimize the acidic extraction of total alkaloids from Maca with different color type. The effects of three extraction parameters including solid-to-liquid ratio, temperature and duration on extraction efficiency were investigated by orthogonal array design. Results were as follows:The order of effect of different factors on extraction efficiency for yellow Maca and black Maca were solid-to-liquid ratio > duration > temperature. The order of effect of different factors on extraction efficiency for purple Maca were duration > solid-to-liquid ratio > temperature. The content of total alkaliods in yellow Maca was 9.89%±0.38% under the optimum extracting conditions:Ratio of solid to liquid 1:30, temperature 75℃, time 5.5 h.The optimal extraction condition of purple Maca were 90℃ temperature for 5.5 h with solid-to-liquid ratio 1:25, and the yield of total alkaloids was 10.36%±0.58%. The optimal extraction parameters for black Maca was as follows:Temperature 85℃, time 6 h, solid-liquid ratio 1:20, under these conditions, the extraction yield of total alkaloids was 10.01%±0.78%. In conclusion, the optimal extraction conditions for total alkaloids in different color types Maca had some differences.