https://doi.org/10.17113/ftb.63.02.25.8560

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Optimization of Ultrasonic Assisted Extraction Conditions Using Response Surface Methodology and Identification of Thymoquinone from Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Seed Extract^§

Nita Kaushik^* and Aradhita Barmanray

Department of Food Technology, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar-125001, Haryana, India

Copyright © 2024 This is a Diamond Open Access article published under CC-BY licence. Copyright remains with the authors, who grant third parties the unrestricted right to use, copy, distribute and reproduce the article as long as the original author(s) and source are acknowledged.

Article history:

Received: 31 January 2024

Accepted: 25 March 2025

Keywords:

ultrasonic extraction optimization; thymoquinone identification; black cumin; FTIR analysis; GC-MS analysis; antioxidant potential

Summary:

Research background. Nigella sativa L., commonly known as black cumin, is a medicinal plant renowned for its rich bioactive composition and health-promoting properties. Among its key compounds, thymoquinone has gained significant attention in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical research for its potential to prevent and manage chronic inflammatory conditions and immune dysfunctions. With growing global interest in natural health solutions, this study aims to optimize ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) conditions to maximize thymoquinone yield and characterize the bioactive compounds. By employing UAE and advanced analytical techniques, the research contributes to developing sustainable, bioactive-rich extracts with applications in health and nutrition. The present study aims to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction conditions for bioactive compounds and to identify thymoquinone in the extract of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seeds.

Experimental approach. In this study, ultrasonic assisted extraction method was employed with response surface methodology (RSM) software, in order to extract the bioactive compounds, including total phenolic content (TPC) and DPPH radical scavenging activity. In order to enhance the extraction efficiency of bioactive compounds, the following conditions were determined: mass of seed powder to volume of solvent ratio of 50–100 %, extraction temperature of 30 °C, amplitude of 30–60 % and extraction time of 30–60 min. Black cumin seed extracts were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), while gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was conducted to identify thymoquinone. Additionally, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy confirmed the presence of thymoquinone and several functional groups, including amines, alkanes, acids, esters, alkyls, and alkenes.

Results and conclusions. Ultrasonic extraction using methanol as a solvent resulted in a higher yield of thymoquinone (28.62 %), identified through GC-MS analysis. The presence of thymoquinone was further confirmed by the functional groups detected in FTIR analysis. Under the specified extraction conditions, total phenolic content (TPC), yield percentage, and DPPH radical scavenging activity increased by approximately 271.03 mg/g GAE, 4.5 %, and 83.06 %, respectively. In addition to thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone was also identified based on its molecular mass, retention time, and peak values. Thymoquinone (TQ), a naturally derived and potent phytochemical, offers a range of therapeutic properties, including immune-enhancing potential.

Novelty and scientific contribution. Thymoquinone is a bioactive compound found in black cumin seeds, known for its potent antioxidant and immunity boosting properties. This research was conducted with the intention of achieving the best possible extraction conditions for bioactive substances. Additionally, the results support the potential of thymoquinone as a therapeutic agent for the management of various health conditions. The novelty lies in the development and optimization of extraction techniques to maximize the yield and bioactivity of thymoquinone, a compound renowned for its robust antioxidant and immune-modulating properties. This work uniquely bridges the gap between traditional uses of black cumin and modern scientific validation, addressing global health priorities. The findings underscore the importance of Nigella sativa as a sustainable and natural source of health-promoting compounds, aligning with the increasing demand for plant-based bioactive compounds in preventive healthcare. By characterizing the extraction conditions and demonstrating therapeutic potential of thymoquinone, this study contributes to both the academic literature and practical advancements in functional food and nutraceuticals development.

^§Paper was initially presented at the 9th International Food Convention (IFCON), Mysuru, India