The exo-factors: effects of ethanol concentration and extraction time on phenolic Yyeld and antioxidant capacity of young coconut (Cocos nucifera) exocarp

Date

2025

Adviser

Lea C. Garcia

Principal

Buela, Mabel S.

Abstract

Coconut production in the Philippines has reached approximately 14.93 million metric tons in recent years. As a consequence, agricultural waste, particularly coconut husks, are generated significantly. However, these byproducts are often incinerated or disposed of improperly, contributing to environmental degradation and inefficient waste management. While studies have highlighted the presence of phenolic compounds in mature coconut husks, little is known about the phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of young coconut exocarp. This study aimed to determine the individual and interaction effects of ethanol concentration (EC) and extraction time (ET) on the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity of young coconut exocarp using a 22 factorial design. Phenolic extraction was performed using two levels of EC (10% and 80%) and ET (0.5 hours and 2 hours). TPC was quantified using the Folin-Ciocalteu method, while antioxidant capacity was measured using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Data was analyzed using ANOVA. The highest TPC (44,020.3 μg GAE) was obtained at 80% ethanol and 0.5 hours, while the highest DPPH inhibition (42.8%) was recorded at 80% ethanol and 2 hours. Nonetheless, 80% ethanol with 0.5-hour extraction produced the highest average results for both parameters. ANOVA revealed that EC significantly influenced both TPC (p < 0.0001) and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.004), while ET and interaction effects were statistically insignificant (p > 0.05). The findings suggest that young coconut exocarp has the potential to serve as a viable source of natural antioxidants. Furthermore, using a shorter ET does not compromise TPC or antioxidant activity, offering a more efficient and cost-effective method for future applications. The researchers recommend further studies to explore other extraction factors, identify specific phenolic compounds in young coconut exocarps, perform additional antioxidant assays, and optimize the extraction process.

Language

English

Location

UP Rural High School

Document Type

Capstone

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