• The Ammaruekhawathi (AMRK) extraction protocol was optimized using an experimental design by varying ethanol concentration, extraction temperature, and shaking time. • The optimized extract, enriched in gallic acid, ellagic acid, and glycyrrhizic acid, was successfully transformed into a stable dry powder via freeze-drying. • The AMRK powder preserved its characteristic aroma and bioactive components, exhibiting suitable physicochemical stability. Ammaruekhawathi (AMRK) is a Thai polyherbal remedy traditionally administered in powder form for cough relief. The aims of this study were to develop and optimize an extraction process for AMRK and to produce a dry extract suitable for nutraceutical applications. Extraction parameters, ethanol concentration (30-70% v/v), temperature (30-70 °C), and time (2-6 h), were optimized via response surface methodology (RSM) to maximize yields of gallic acid, ellagic acid, and glycyrrhizic acid. The optimal conditions were 53.05% ethanol, 58.76 °C, and 4.17 h, yielding gallic acid at 3.10 ± 0.22 mg/g, ellagic acid at 2.33 ± 0.28 mg/g, and glycyrrhizic acid at 23.64 ± 1.70 mg/g. This freeze-dried extract with maltodextrin gave a light brown and fine powder, showing high water solubility and low moisture content. Aroma and bioactive compounds retained in the powder showed stability at 25 °C and 40 °C over 30 days. In conclusion, this integrated approach provides a scalable framework for producing stable herbal extracts with enhanced solubility and improved ease of administration, supporting the development of phytonutrient supplements with improved quality and commercial potential.
Jitsaeng et al. (Fri,) studied this question.