WO2024160766A1

WO2024160766A1 - Method for extracting an extract of interest from at least one plant and/or fungus

Info

Publication number: WO2024160766A1
Application number: PCT/EP2024/052146
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jérémy ESPAGNOL
Original assignee: Capsum
Priority date: 2023-01-31
Filing date: 2024-01-30
Publication date: 2024-08-08
Also published as: FR3145288A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for extracting at least one extract of interest obtained from at least one plant and/or at least one fungus, the method comprising at least the steps of: (a) providing at least one plant and/or at least one fungus; (b) subjecting the plant and/or fungus to at least one extraction cycle comprising: (b1) at least a first step of microwave-assisted extraction, whereby a first aqueous extract is obtained; and (b2) at least a second step of maceration applied to the first aqueous extract obtained in step (b1), whereby the extract of interest is obtained, and wherein steps (b1) and (b2) are carried out without adding an extraction solvent by virtue of the water naturally present in the plant and/or fungus.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Process for extracting an extract of interest from at least one plant and/or mushroom

The present invention relates to a new extraction process, for the extraction of an extract of interest from at least one plant and/or at least one mushroom.

Various extraction methods, particularly plant-based, are currently proposed, including maceration extraction and microwave extraction. However, these extraction methods have limitations and/or drawbacks, particularly in terms of complexity, danger and/or ecology.

Maceration is generally carried out using dry materials, which requires one or more prior step(s) such as dehydration (or drying) of the plant and crushing. However, dehydration is generally time-consuming, expensive and not very environmentally friendly.

Also, extraction by maceration and microwave extraction require the addition of extraction solvents, in particular organic (eg ethanol, methanol, ethyl acetate, hexane), which can be dangerous, both for humans (impact on health) but also for the environment (aquatic pollution by industrial discharges). The use of such solvents also involves one or more additional step(s), such as evaporation steps to extract the solvent. Here again, these evaporation steps are generally time-consuming, expensive and not very ecological. Finally, the use of extraction solvents mechanically implies a dilution of the extracts of interest, and therefore lower extraction yields.

A microwave extraction method on fresh plants and without adding solvent exists. However, this method is limited to the extraction of volatile compounds only. The extraction product (or “juice”) obtained is therefore an aqueous phase comprising very low, or even zero, contents of extract of interest.

Optimization of extraction processes remains a constant objective. At the same time, we observe that the market and consumers are increasingly looking for eco-responsible solutions.

There therefore remains a need for an extraction process free from the aforementioned drawbacks, and in particular for an extraction process that is easy to implement, safe, inexpensive, has satisfactory or even improved production yields, and which is also more eco-responsible. The invention aims precisely to meet these objectives. One aim of the invention is therefore to provide a method for extracting an extract of interest from at least one plant and/or at least one fungus which does not have the aforementioned drawbacks.

The invention relates to a process for extracting at least one extract of interest obtained from at least one plant and/or at least one mushroom, the process comprising at least the steps consisting of:

(a) have at least one plant and/or at least one mushroom;

(b) subjecting the plant and/or fungus to at least one extraction cycle comprising:

(b1) at least a first microwave extraction step, whereby a first aqueous extract is obtained; And

(b2) at least a second maceration step applied to the first aqueous extract obtained in step (b1), whereby the extract of interest is obtained, and in which steps (b1) and (b2) are carried out without addition of extraction solvent, said process not comprising a step of adding solvent(s) before step (b), and said process not comprising extraction with one or more supercritical fluids.

In other words, the extraction process is carried out (or implemented) without adding any extraction solvent.

Indeed, steps (b1) and (b2) are carried out using the native water of the plant and/or fungus. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “native water” means the water present naturally and from the outset in the plant and/or fungus, in particular in the cells of the plant and/or fungus.

Preferably, step (b1) and step (b2) are carried out within the same extraction device, and preferably within the same receptacle.

An extraction process according to the invention is therefore based on easy, safe and inexpensive implementation while presenting satisfactory, or even improved, extraction yields of extract(s) of interest.

In addition, it turns out to be more environmentally friendly since it does not require any addition of extraction solvent. A process according to the invention is therefore more eco-responsible. This advantage is made possible by the fact that steps (b1) and (b2) are carried out using the native water of the plant and/or the mushroom.

In other words, an extraction method according to the invention, by implementing an extraction cycle combining two different extraction methods, preferably carried out within the same extraction device, or even from the same receptacle, and what is more without the addition of extraction solvent, turns out to have unexpected advantageous effects. Indeed, the maceration carried out in step (b2) from the first aqueous extract obtained at the end of step (b1) allows optimized extraction, thus providing access to extracts even more concentrated in active agent(s) than with conventional extraction methods.

The invention is all the more unexpected as it goes against the teaching of those skilled in the art since:

- microwave extraction generally relies on the addition of an extraction solvent, generally of the hydroalcoholic type, and

- extraction by maceration is classically carried out on dry plants, preferably crushed.

Finally, the invention is advantageous in that the waste generated remains clean and therefore easily recoverable, reinforcing the sustainable value of this new extraction method.

Advantageously, an extraction method according to the invention:

- does not include, before step b), a step of adding solvent(s), in particular hydrophilic (or aqueous) and/or lipophilic and/or amphiphilic solvent(s);

- does not include the step of adding oil(s);

- does not include a step of contacting with supercritical CO2;

- does not include a separation step between a fatty phase and an aqueous phase; and or

- does not include a heating step in an atmosphere devoid, or essentially devoid, of Bone.

The invention also relates to a composition, in particular cosmetic, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical or food, comprising at least one extract of interest obtained by means of an extraction process according to the invention, optionally in association with a physiologically acceptable medium.

The invention finally relates to the use of at least one extract of interest obtained by means of an extraction process according to the invention, for the manufacture of a composition, in particular cosmetic, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical or food.

Unless otherwise indicated, in the remainder of this description, we use ambient temperature (for example T = 25°C ± 2°C) and atmospheric pressure (760 mm Hg, i.e. 1.013.10 ⁵ Pa or 10 ¹³ mbar ).

Step (a)

The plant and/or the mushroom is cultivated using any method known to those skilled in the art. Preferably, step (a) is carried out from a plant and/or a mushroom cultivated using a vertical cultivation method/device.

Preferably, the plant and/or fungus is grown under controlled conditions. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “controlled conditions” is understood to mean an enclosure in which at least the water and hydrometric parameters, the brightness, the temperature and the air quality are controlled and monitored, if necessary by computer.

Thus, step (a) of an extraction process according to the invention is advantageously carried out from a plant and/or a mushroom cultivated in a cultivation unit ensuring total control of the cultivation conditions, in particular ensuring controlled regulation of water, hygrometry, temperature, and in terms of air quality and light supply.

Concerning the water parameter, the water used for the cultivation of the plant and/or the mushroom can be chosen from any suitable water source, and in particular can be chosen from city water, rainwater, water from an aquifer. If applicable or necessary, the water can be treated prior to its use, in particular to remove any trace of contamination, in particular of pesticides.

In particular, the water is depolluted by ultraviolet rays, filters, preferably equipped with pores with a diameter of 0.2 microns, self-purifying microorganisms, such as for example daphnia (also called "water fleas"). water), and their mixtures.

Concerning the brightness parameter, we can use sunlight and/or artificial light, in particular via LED technology. In the case where sunlight is used, the unit can be adapted, in particular via the construction of a transparent roof.

Concerning the atmospheric parameter, the unit can be adapted to inject air of controlled quality, temperature and/or humidity.

Concerning the temperature parameter, we can use a heating or air conditioning system, reversible if necessary.

The unit is also advantageously adapted to operate self-sufficiently, that is to say that it produces the energy source(s) necessary for its operation.

In particular, the energy used to ensure the operation of a unit according to the invention is clean energy (also called green energy), that is to say a primary energy source which produces a small quantity of pollutants. when it is transformed into final energy and then used as such.

Preferably, the energy used to ensure the operation of a unit according to the invention is chosen from solar energy including photovoltaic and thermal, wind energy, tidal energy, wave energy, hydroelectric energy, geothermal energy, space solar energy, nuclear energy, and biomass, preferably solar energy.

As such, a particularly suitable cultivation method may be of the “urban farming” type (also called “URBAN VERTICAL FARMING SYSTEM”), i.e. an urban agricultural system, particularly vertical, based on the principle of hydroponics. , or even aquaponics.

Thus, step (a) of an extraction process according to the invention is advantageously carried out from a plant and/or a mushroom obtained by hydroponic or aquaponic cultivation.

By way of illustration, a suitable agricultural system is a hydroponic system as described for example in EP0010836, WO1996032835, WO2016072042, US2017049064.

Another suitable agricultural system is an aquaponic system as described for example in WO2015160966 or W02008006172.

A person skilled in the art will know how to make the necessary adjustments to the unit to satisfy the criterion of “controlled conditions” required according to the invention and ensure the cultivation of the plant and/or mushroom and, where appropriate, to allow the unit to produce its own source(s) of energy.

Thus, step (a) of an extraction process according to the invention is advantageously carried out from a plant and/or a mushroom cultivated under controlled conditions, preferably in a cultivation unit ensuring control total cultivation conditions, in particular ensuring controlled regulation of water, hygrometry, temperature, and in terms of air quality and light supply, and in particular obtained by hydroponic or aquaponic cultivation.

A cultivation unit as described above is advantageous in that:

- the cultivation of plants and/or mushrooms is carried out under controlled conditions, making it possible to reduce, or even prevent, the risks of disease and/or contamination,

- it makes it possible to limit the use of pesticides, or even to avoid them completely, and even makes it possible to avoid any contamination by pesticides from surrounding crops,

- the growth of plants and/or mushrooms is better controlled and can be done all year round, with exceptional production yields,

- it is not subject to sudden variations in temperature, rain, hail, frost or predatory insects, significantly reducing the risks of destruction of plants and/or fungi, and therefore of crops,

- it can be controlled remotely by computer, - it authorizes a method of cultivating plants and/or mushrooms that is almost self-sufficient in the elements necessary for their survival and growth, in particular in water, light, oxygen and/or temperature,

- it allows a reduction in the requirements for elements necessary for the growth of plants and/or mushrooms, in particular in water, which can also supply the plants and/or mushrooms in a closed circuit,

- it ensures extraction from fresh plants and/or mushrooms, therefore rich in active ingredients of interest, which is also in an undegraded form,

- it authorizes the recycling of certain organic waste and excreta resulting in particular from the cultivation and extraction stages to contribute in whole or in part to the growth of future generations of plants and/or mushrooms, and

- the unit makes it possible to limit the use of transport and conservation chains that are costly in terms of equipment, machines, fuels and packaging, implying a reduction in CO2 emissions and the need for energy and fossil carbon, and therefore an reduction of the impact on nature and costs.

Vegetal

A plant according to the invention may be chosen from plants, in particular mosses, ferns, gymnosperms and angiosperms; algae; and mixtures thereof, and preferably plants.

A plant according to the invention can be chosen from a fruit or a vegetable.

A plant according to the invention can be chosen from an edible or inedible plant, preferably an edible plant.

A plant can be chosen from garlic, alfalfa (or alfalfa), almond, amaranth, dill, aragula, oats, azukis, basil, Swiss chard ( oriole or rose), beetroot, chard, wheat, broccoli, borage, canihua/kaniwa (baby quinoa), carrot, celery (eg Apium graveolens L.), chervil, chia, chicory , cabbage, spring onions, chives, coriander, watercress, watercress, spelt, spinach (eg Spinacia oleracea L.), fennel (eg Foeniculum Vulgare), fenugreek, squash, sunflower, mung bean, kale, kamut, lentils, red lentils, green lentils, flax, corn, millet, mizuna, mustard, turnip, onion, barley, parsley, leek, chickpeas, peas (eg field peas (Pisum sativum L.)), purslane, quinoa, radish, horseradish, rice, arugula, buckwheat, rye , sesame, soy, tatsoi, clover, cannabis, cucumber (eg Cucumis sativus L.), oregano (Origanum vulgare), broccoli, marshmallow, mallow, lemon balm (eg Melissa officinale) , pansy (eg wild pansy), yarrow (eg yarrow), Centella Asiatica, evening primrose (eg biennial evening primrose), false pepper tree, shiso (or Perilla frutescens), purple coneflower, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, olive tree (eg Olea europaea L. subsp. europaea var. europaea), lemon tree (eg Citrus xlimon), the orange tree (eg Citrus sinensis), the pomelo (or pomelo or grapefruit, eg Citrus x paradisi Macfad.), the vine and in particular the grape, the strawberry, the kiwi, the cabbage, the rapeseed, the lamb's lettuce, the melon , papaya, mango, pepper, tomato, watermelon, lychee, persimmon, apricot, apple, date, cherry, fig, pear, nectarine, artichoke, shallot, asparagus, eggplant, tea, ginger, and mixtures thereof.

Mushrooms

A mushroom according to the invention can be chosen from an edible or inedible mushroom, preferably an edible mushroom.

A mushroom according to the invention can be chosen from Fungi (also called Mycota, Mycetes or fungi), oomycetes, chytridiomycetes (also called Chytridiomycota or chytrids), mycetozoa and their mixtures, preferably Fungi.

A mushroom may be chosen from the genera Agaricus, Lentinula, Pleurotus, Grifola, Hypsizygus, Auricularia, Flammulina, Volvariella, Agrocybe, Pholiota, Tricholoma, Tremella, and mixtures thereof.

In particular, a mushroom can be chosen from the species Agaricus bisporus (button mushroom), Lentinula edodes (Oak lentin or shiitake), Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushroom and other related species), Pleurotus eryngii (panic oyster mushroom), Grifola frondosa (hen of the wood), Hypsizygus tessulatus (buna-shimeji), Auricularia auricula-judae (Judas's ear), Flammulina velutipes (Velvet-footed collybia), Volvariella volvacea (Asian volvaria), Agrocybe aegerita (poplar frondosa), Pholiota nameko (Asian pholiote), Tricholoma matsutake (matsutake), Tremella fuciformis (spindle tremella), and mixtures thereof.

Preferably, step (b), in particular step (b1), of an extraction process according to the invention is carried out from at least one plant and/or at least one fresh mushroom, and better still from at least one plant and/or at least one fresh frozen mushroom.

This configuration on fresh or even frozen plants and/or mushrooms advantageously makes it possible to reduce, or even prevent, a deterioration in the production yield and/or the quality of the extract of interest. Indeed, particularly in the case of plants, it is known that certain active agents are difficult to preserve over time. This can be explained, in particular, by the establishment of biochemical mechanisms of tolerance to abiotic stresses, for example water and/or oxidative, which can lead to to alteration or consumption of said active agents by the plant itself, or to the production of undesired molecules likely to interact negatively with the active agent of interest. However, for obvious reasons, the longer the time between the harvest of a plant and/or a mushroom and the extraction of active agent(s) that it comprises, the higher the production yield and /or more the quality of active agent(s) may be altered.

By “fresh”, within the meaning of the present invention, is meant a plant and/or a mushroom which has been harvested (for example picked, pulled or extracted from the ground) for less than 24 hours, preferably less than 12 hours, in particular less than 5 hours, better less than 3 hours, or even less than an hour, before the extraction step.

By “frozen”, within the meaning of the present invention, is meant a fresh plant and/or mushroom which, before step (b), has undergone a freezing step, and therefore a fresh plant and/or mushroom which has been maintained at a temperature below 0°C, preferably below 5°C, in particular below 10°C, or even below 15°C, preferably for at least 2 hours, in particular at least 5 hours , and better for a period of between 2 hours and 7 days, in particular between 5 hours and 5 days, better between 8 hours and 3 days, and very particularly between 12 hours and 1 day.

Thus, the extraction process according to the invention can advantageously comprise, before step (b), a step of freezing the plant and/or the mushroom. As can be seen from the examples below, the Applicant has observed that freezing further improves extraction yields.

Advantageously, an extraction process according to the invention does not include, in particular before step (b), a step of drying, dehydration, freeze-drying, grinding, decoction, enfleurage, infusion, addition of solvent(s), extraction by Soxhlet, extraction assisted by sonication, extraction with supercritical fluids, extraction based on the principle of sonoporation, and/or ultrasonic disintegration, and their combinations, plant and/or mushroom.

Step (b)

Step (b), in particular step (b1), can be carried out from any material derived in whole or in part from at least one plant and/or at least one mushroom.

Step (b), in particular step (b1), can be carried out from any plant material derived from a whole plant, in particular from a whole plant, or from any part of said plant, in particular from said plant, such as for example leaves, stems, flowers and flowering tops, seeds, buds, roots, undifferentiated cells or plant stem cells, and mixtures thereof. According to a particular embodiment, step (b), in particular step (b1), can be carried out from a germinated seed (also called germination), a microgreen or a young shoot, generally grown above ground, and preferably a microgreen.

A sprouted seed is a very early stage of maturity where the plant has a root system, the cotyledon leaves being not or very little developed. The average growing time for most sprouted seeds is less than 10 days, or even less than 5 days, from sowing to harvest. Sprouted seeds have properties, particularly nutritional, superior to dry seeds: vitamin and enzyme levels can be greatly increased during the germination process.

A germinated seed is therefore a plant that retains its root system and has an earlier stage of maturity than a microgreen.

A microgreen is a green plant harvested after it has sprouted. A microgreen has a single central stem that was cut off just above the soil line during harvest (thus stripped of its roots). It has fully developed cotyledon leaves and usually has a pair of very small, partially developed leaves. The average growing time for most microgreens is 10 to 14 days from seeding until harvest.

A seedling is an early stage of maturity but later than the germinated seed and the microgreen. The average cultivation time for most seedlings is more than 10 days, or even more than 15 days, from seeding to harvest.

In general, sprouts, microgreens, and seedlings contain considerably higher levels of vitamins and carotenoids than their mature plant counterparts.

The very short cultivation time, the very small size and the high concentration of active ingredient(s) make sprouted seeds, microgreens and young shoots, preferably microgreens, types of plants entirely suitable for the present invention.

The extract of interest can be obtained from any material from a whole mushroom, or from any part of said mushroom, such as for example the cap, the stem (or stipe), the mycelium, and their mixtures.

As indicated previously, the manufacture (extraction) of an extract of interest is based on at least one extraction cycle, the cycle comprising two successive different extraction stages (b1) and (b2), preferably carried out at within the same extraction device, or even the same receptacle, in which: - the first extraction step consisting of subjecting the plant and/or the fungus to at least one microwave extraction sequence without adding extraction solvent, the product obtained from this first microwave extraction being designated by “first aqueous extract”; And

- the second extraction step consisting of subjecting the first aqueous extract, without addition of extraction solvent, to at least one extraction sequence by maceration, the product obtained from this second extraction by maceration being indifferently designated by " extract of interest”, “second aqueous extract” or “final aqueous extract”.

Steps (b1) and (b2) of the extraction process according to the invention are carried out without adding any extraction solvent, using the native water of the plant and/or the mushroom. In other words, no extraction solvent is used to carry out step (b1) and the extraction solvent used to carry out step (b2) is native water extracted from the plant and/or the mushroom during step (b1).

According to a particular embodiment, an extraction method according to the invention may comprise several extraction cycles, identical or different, in particular in terms of the power of the microwave extraction, the duration of the step (b1) and/or (b2) and/or respective sequences in step(s) (b1) and/or (b2), as described in more detail below.

Such a particular embodiment is advantageous in that it makes it possible to further improve the extraction yield.

Step (b1) - first microwave extraction step

The microwave extraction step can be indifferently referred to as “microwave radiation extraction step”, and is carried out by means of a microwave radiation heat treatment device.

Such microwave heating technology is particularly suitable for plants and/or mushrooms because it allows direct heating at the heart of the material for small thicknesses up to the order of magnitude of a centimeter.

The microwave extraction device comprises at least one tank and at least one microwave generator with a frequency which can be included, for example and without limitation, between 300 MHz and 6,000 MHz, and preferably around standard frequencies of 2450 MHz or 915 MHz, is connected via at least one waveguide and flanges to an enclosure. The purpose of the microwave generator(s) is to provide the energy necessary for the heat treatment of the material to be treated. Other heat sources can be added to increase the effectiveness of the treatment, such as, for example, hot air or infrared radiation. The speaker may have dimensions included, for example and without limitation, between 300mm and 2,500 mm. One or more air inlet orifice(s) can be placed on the waveguides to allow, for example, their dust removal or their cooling. The flanges connecting the waveguide to the inlet guide can be provided with a quick locking/unlocking system, for example and in a non-restrictive manner, by compressed air. At least one window, for example, made of quartz, or any other equivalent material transparent to microwaves, can also be placed between the flanges in order to prevent dust from rising in the wave guide produced, for example, during heating cycles. In one embodiment, the enclosure is pivotally mounted, for example, on a base via an axis passing, for example, through the center of gravity of the enclosure. Pivoting means, such as for example a geared motor assembly, can make it possible to quickly pivot the enclosure around its axis. Such a device is described in particular in EP2530059.

In particular, the microwave extraction device includes a tilting rotating tank with ultrasound at the bottom of the tank.

Preferably, the microwave extraction step can be carried out:

- at a power between 600 W and 6000 W, preferably between 700 W and 5000 W, better still between 800 W and 4000 W, and very particularly between 1000 W and 2000 W (W = Watts);

- for a duration of between 1 minute and 3 hours, preferably between 2 minutes and 2 hours, better between 5 minutes and 1 hour, in particular between 1 minute and 30 minutes, even between 2 minutes and 20 minutes, and better still between 5 minutes and 10 minutes; and or

- at a temperature between 20°C and 120°C, preferably between 30°C and 100°C, and better still between 40°C and 80°C.

Preferably, the extraction step can be carried out for a period of between 1 and 30 minutes, preferably between 2 and 20 minutes, and better still between 5 and 10 minutes.

Preferably, the microwave extraction device may further comprise at least:

- a solution for brewing the plant and/or fungus to be treated; and/or

- a rotating tank forming a cavity preferably made of a refractory metal of low resistivity, rotated by means allowing its speed to be varied so as to optimize the mixing of the plant and/or mushroom to be treated. Such an embodiment is described in particular in EP2530059.

Such embodiments are advantageous in that they allow heat exchange between particles by convection, conduction and, at higher temperatures, by radiation. This permanent exchange allows precise balancing of the temperature of the particles at each moment.

Advantageously, the microwave extraction step can be carried out via flash heat treatment, as described in FR2976062.

Advantageously, the microwave extraction device can also comprise conventional non-microwave heating means so as to preheat the material to be treated.

Advantageously, the microwave extraction device can also comprise conventional means for carrying out partial or total vacuum extraction. Preferably, the partial void can advantageously be between 50mb and 300mb.

In the same extraction cycle, the microwave extraction step (b1) may comprise one or more microwave treatment sequences, identical or different, particularly in terms of their power, temperature and/or duration. .

According to a particular embodiment, the device used for the microwave extraction step is that marketed under the names E200 to E2000, ECT200 to ECT1000 or ECS150 to ECS1000, by the company IDCO. In particular, a device for the microwave extraction step is the E200 marketed by the company IDCO.

The Applicant's use of this device goes against the use recommendations of the supplier IDCO. In fact, the supplier recommends using this machine by placing the material to be treated in a receptacle (or bowl or tank) provided with holes, thus allowing the juice extracted during microwave extraction to percolate. In other words, the extraction product, as soon as it is formed, is no longer mechanically in contact with the material to be treated.

In the context of the present invention, the Applicant does away with the receptacle, thus making possible prolonged contact between the plant and/or the mushroom and the juice extracted throughout the microwave extraction step. In addition, this embodiment makes the subsequent maceration step mechanically possible, without handling the first aqueous extract.

Thus, in an extraction process according to the invention, the first aqueous extract, during step (b), in particular during step (b1) and during step (b2), remains in contact with the plant and/or the mushroom.

Thus, the microwave extraction step is carried out without adding any extraction solvent, using only native water, namely water forming an integral part and from the origin of the plant and/or fungus. , and in particular water which is an integral part of the cells of the plant and/or the fungus. Step (b2) - second step of extraction by maceration

In view of the above, the extraction step by maceration is carried out without addition of extraction solvent, using only the first aqueous extract, which is particularly advantageous.

Thus, the extraction solvent considered for this extraction step by maceration is the first aqueous extract obtained at the end of step (b1).

Against all expectations, the Applicant also observed that step (b1) also allows the duration of step (b2) to be shortened, without significant harm to the extraction yield.

Preferably, step (b2) of extraction by maceration can be carried out for a period of between 1 minute and 5 hours, in particular between 5 minutes and 5 hours, preferably between 10 minutes and 4 hours, better still between 10 minutes. and 3 hours, especially between 1 hour and 2 hours, or even between 20 minutes and 40 minutes.

In the same extraction cycle, step (b2) of extraction by maceration may comprise one or more sequences of treatment by maceration, identical or different, in particular in terms of their temperature and/or duration.

According to a first variant, the extraction step by maceration is carried out cold.

According to a first variant, the maceration extraction step is carried out hot.

The maceration extraction step is carried out after the microwave extraction step. In other words, the maceration extraction step is initiated once the microwave extraction step carried out previously is completed.

In view of the above, the maceration extraction step is carried out with, and within, the same device as that used for the microwave extraction step.

Preferably, the maceration extraction device may also comprise at least:

- a brewing solution of the plant and/or mushroom to be treated; and or

Additional step(s)

According to a particular embodiment, the extraction method according to the invention may further comprise, during step (b1), between steps (b1) and (b2) and/or after step (b2), at least one step (c) of cooling the first aqueous extract and/or the extract of interest.

This cooling step can be carried out in such a way that the first aqueous extract and/or the extract of interest is evacuated by tilting into a cooler, for example, by air whose air flow is ensured, for example, by a fan. A purpose of this cooler is to accelerate the cooling of the material. Another purpose of this cooler is to recover the heat emitted by the treated material after it leaves the enclosure, during the cooling stage. Cooling of the treated material can, for example, be carried out by circulating a flow of air over the latter, for example, via a fan or any other type of equivalent means.

According to a particular embodiment, the extraction process comprises a cooling step (c) simultaneous with step (b1), or also with step (b2), carried out at the level of the tank (or receptacle) comprising the plant and/or the mushroom. According to this embodiment, the tank of the device is advantageously provided with a double envelope, the cooling being carried out at the level of the external envelope. This embodiment is advantageous in that it makes it possible to condense the volatile materials extracted during step (b1), for example essential oils, and therefore to optimize the composition and/or the extraction yield of the first aqueous extract, and therefore the extract of interest.

According to another particular embodiment, an extraction method according to the invention may further comprise, before step (b), between steps (b1) and (b2) and/or after step (b2) , and preferably after step (b2), at least one additional pressing step (d). This pressing step, carried out on the plant and/or the mushroom, the first aqueous extract and/or the extract of interest, and preferably on the extract of interest, can be carried out using any device. adapted, and in particular using a press. This pressing step ensures solid/liquid separation.

According to another particular embodiment, an extraction method according to the invention may further comprise, after step (b), and in particular after step (b2), at least one additional step (e) of filtration of the extract of interest. This filtration, carried out on the extract of interest, can be carried out using any suitable device, in particular using a sieve or filter.

Filtration advantageously makes it possible to separate, at the level of the extract of interest, the “juice” from any fibers and other solid elements of the plant and/or fungus larger than the pores of the filter of the filtration device. Preferably, this filtration operation makes it possible to remove from the extract of interest any element greater than 0.2 microns (pm), which corresponds to the debacterization threshold.

Preferably, the filtration step is carried out using a plate filter, which allows it to go down through a filtration cascade, preferably down to 0.2 microns.

Advantageously, an extraction process according to the invention further comprises at least one additional step (d) of pressing and at least one additional step (e) of filtration, where appropriate, steps (d) and (e) being simultaneous.

According to yet another particular embodiment, an extraction method according to the invention may further comprise, after step (b), and in particular after step (b2), at least one additional step (f) mixing the extract of interest, if necessary previously pressed and/or filtered, with at least one conservation phase, whereby a “diluted extract of interest” is obtained.

Preferably, a conservation phase can be chosen from glycerin, propanediol, butylene glycol, propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof, and preferably glycerin. This dilution is advantageous in that it makes it possible to avoid any bacterial growth, and therefore improved conservation of the product obtained from the extraction process according to the invention.

Preferably, the extract of interest is mixed with at least one conservation solvent in an “extract of interest/conservation phase” ratio of between 10/90 and 60/40, preferably between 20/80 and 50/ 50, and in particular between 30/70 and 40/60.

An extraction process according to the invention, in particular the microwave extraction step and the maceration extraction step, is advantageous in that it does not require, in terms of the extraction steps , the addition of extraction solvent, for example glycerin, water, ethanol, isopropanol, propanediol, and their mixtures.

In particular, an extraction process according to the invention is advantageous in that:

- in pre-treatment, that is to say before step (b), in particular step (b1), above, it does not require a drying step and/or a grinding step of the plant and/or mushroom; and or

- between steps (b1) and (b2) above, it does not require drying steps and/or grinding steps and/or evaporation steps of the first aqueous extract; and or

- in post-treatment, that is to say after step (b2) above, it does not require evaporation steps in extraction solvent(s) at the level of the extract of interest. Excerpt of interest

For the purposes of the present invention, an extract of interest comprises at least one active agent. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “active agent” means a compound having a beneficial physiological effect on the element on which it acts. It aims, for example, to protect, maintain in good condition, care for, cure, perfume, flavor or color. The extract of interest is advantageously a cosmetic, dermo-pharmaceutical, pharmaceutical or food agent.

Preferably, an active agent is chosen from polyphenols, proteins, amino acids, peptides, sugars, minerals, vitamins, carotenoids, enzymes, and mixtures thereof.

Preferably, an active agent is a polyphenol (or “vegetable tannin”, or “biophenol”). Polyphenols are a family of complex molecules that plants produce naturally to defend themselves against various attacks. They are characterized by the presence of at least two phenols associated in more or less complex structures, generally of high molecular weight.

A polyphenol can be chosen from phenolic acids (catechol, gallic acid, protocatechuic acid), flavones, chlorogenic acid, quinones, and mixtures thereof.

A polyphenol can be chosen from simple phenols, in particular phenolic acids and coumarins; naphthoquinones; stilbenoids (two C6 rings linked by two carbon atoms); flavonoids, particularly isoflavonoids and anthocyanins; polymerized forms, in particular lignans, lignins, condensed tannins; and their mixtures.

Also, polyphenols are commonly subdivided into flavonoids or non-flavonoids (resveratrol, phenolic acids, lignans).

A flavonoid type polyphenol can be chosen from a flavone (eg quercetin), a flavonol (eg catechin), an anthocyanidin, an isoflavone, a flavonone, a catechin, and mixtures thereof.

A non-flavonoid type polyphenol can be chosen from stilbenes (eg resveratrol), phenolic acids, lignan, and mixtures thereof.

Preferably, the active agent can be chosen from resveratrol, catechins, lignans, curcuminoids, and mixtures thereof. Composition

Preferably, an extract of interest can be used in the field of cosmetics, nutraceuticals, food, pharmaceuticals, etc.

Thus, an extract of interest can be used in a composition, in particular a cosmetic, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical or food composition.

Preferably, a composition comprising at least one extract according to the invention is a cosmetic composition, in particular dedicated to the care and/or makeup of a keratin material, and in particular of the skin and/or hair.

The manufacture of a composition, and in particular the step of adding (or incorporating) the extract of interest according to the invention, falls within the general knowledge of those skilled in the art.

A composition according to the invention may comprise between 0.01% and 20%, preferably between 0.1% and 10%, better still between 0.5% and 5%, and very particularly between 1% and 3%, by weight. extract(s) of interest, where appropriate extract(s) of interest diluted, relative to the total weight of the composition.

Generally, such a composition further comprises at least one physiologically acceptable medium.

In the context of the invention, and unless otherwise stated, the term "physiologically acceptable medium" means a medium suitable for the application considered, in particular for cosmetic applications, and suitable in particular for the application of a composition of the invention on a keratin material, in particular the skin and/or the hair, and more particularly the skin.

The physiologically acceptable medium is generally adapted to the nature of the support on which the composition is to be applied, as well as to the aspect in which the composition is to be packaged.

According to one embodiment, the physiologically acceptable medium is an aqueous phase, preferably in the form of a gel.

According to another embodiment, the physiologically acceptable medium is an oily phase, preferably in gel form.

A composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention can be in any form. Such a composition can be for example a cream, an emulsion (direct, reverse or multiple), a lotion, a serum, a gel and an oil for the skin (hands, face, feet, etc.), a foundation ( liquid, paste) a preparation for baths and showers (salts, foams, oils, gels, etc.), a hair care product (hair dyes and bleaches), a cleaning product (lotions, powders, shampoos), a hair care product (lotions, creams, oils), a styling product (lotions, hairsprays, brilliantines), a shaving product (soaps, foams, lotions, etc.), a product intended to be applied to lips, a sunscreen product, a sunless tanning product, a skin whitening product, an anti-wrinkle product. In particular, a cosmetic composition may be an anti-aging serum, a youth serum, a moisturizing serum or a perfumed water.

A food composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention can be for example a yogurt or a food supplement, in particular liquid.

Preferably, a composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention is an emulsion, preferably macroscopic, that is to say in which the dispersed phase is in the form of drops visible to the naked eye, for example example of diameter between 100 pm and 3000 pm, preferably between 250 pm and 1500 pm, kinetically stable and optionally monodisperse.

An emulsion can be a direct (i.e. oil-in-water), inverse (i.e. water-in-oil) or multiple emulsion, in particular double (i.e. water-in-oil-in-water, oil-in-water-in -oil or oil-in-oil-in-water).

The monodisperse character, as well as a measurement method, are defined in FR3041511.

Advantageously, an extract of interest according to the invention is used in a composition according to the invention in an encapsulated form.

In particular, a composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention, in particular in which the extract of interest is used in an encapsulated form, is manufactured according to a method as described in WO2010063937, WO2012120043 or WO2018167309.

Preferably, a composition according to the invention is devoid of surfactant.

Additional compound(s)

An extract of interest, or even a composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention, may further comprise at least one additional compound different from the extract of interest and the physiologically acceptable medium mentioned above.

An extract of interest, or even a composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention, may further comprise at least powders; Glitter ; coloring agents, in particular chosen from water-soluble or not, fat-soluble or not, organic or inorganic coloring agents, materials with an optical effect, liquid crystals, and mixtures thereof; particulate agents insoluble in the fatty phase; of the conservatives; humectants; stabilizers; chelators; emollients; modifying agents chosen from texture agents, viscosity agents (for example gelling agents/aqueous phase texture agents different from the aforementioned base), pH, osmotic force and/or refractive index modifiers, etc. . or any usual cosmetic additive; and their mixtures.

The coloring agent is for example chosen from pigments, nacres (glitter), materials with an optical effect, in particular liquid crystals, and their mixtures, preferably pigments and/or nacres.

An extract of interest, or even a composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention, may also comprise at least one biological/cosmetic active ingredient (or active agent) different from the extract of interest. The active agent is advantageously a cosmetic, dermo-pharmaceutical, pharmaceutical or food agent.

A biological/cosmetic active ingredient can be chosen from moisturizing agents, healing agents, depigmenting agents, UV filters, desquamating agents, antioxidant agents, active ingredients stimulating the synthesis of dermal and/or epidermal macromolecular molecules, dermodecontracting agents, antiperspirant agents, soothing agents, anti-wrinkle agents, anti-irritant agents, tightening/smoothing agents, anti-dimpling agents, firming agents, sheathing agents, softening agents, emollient agents, slimming agents, protective/anti-radical agents, draining agents, anti-inflammatory agents, whitening agents, self-tanning agents, exfoliating agents, agents stimulating cell renewal or stimulating cutaneous microcirculation, absorbent agents, anti-dandruff agents and /or anti-aging agents, and mixtures thereof.

When the active agent is a pharmaceutical agent, it is advantageously chosen from anticoagulants, anti-thrombogenic agents, anti-mitotic agents, anti-proliferation, anti-adhesion, anti-migration agents, cell adhesion promoters, factors growth molecules, antiparasitic molecules, anti-inflammatories, angiogenics, angiogenesis inhibitors, vitamins, hormones, proteins, antifungals, antimicrobial molecules, antiseptics, antibiotics, and mixtures thereof.

The food agents are advantageously vegetable or fruit purees such as mango puree, pear puree, coconut puree, cream of onions, leeks, carrots, or other preparations which can mix several fruits or vegetables. Alternatively, these are oils such as a food oil, such as olive oil, soybean oil, grape seed oil, sunflower oil, or any other oil. extracted from plants, as well as food active ingredients such as probiotics, yeasts, vitamins, minerals, oleoactives, and their mixtures.

An extract of interest, or even a composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention, may further comprise excipients, such as thickeners, or rheology modifiers. These thickeners are for example polymers, cross-polymers, microgels, gums or proteins, including polysaccharides, celluloses, polysaccharides, silicone-based polymers and co-polymers, colloidal particles (silica, clays , latex...), and their mixtures.

The additional compound(s), in particular the active ingredient(s), may be hydrophilic or lipophilic.

Of course, those skilled in the art will take care to choose any additional compound(s) and/or their quantity in such a way that the advantageous properties of an extract of interest, or even of a composition comprising at least one extract of interest according to the invention, are not or substantially not altered by the planned addition. In particular, the nature and/or quantity of the additional compound(s) depend(s) on the aqueous or fatty nature of the phase considered. These adjustments fall within the skills of those skilled in the art.

Throughout the description, including the claims, the expression "comprising a" should be understood as being synonymous with "comprising at least one", unless otherwise specified. The expressions "between ... and ...", "from ... to ..." and "ranging from ... to ..." should be understood inclusively, unless otherwise specified.

The quantities of the ingredients appearing in the examples are expressed as a percentage by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, unless otherwise indicated. The examples which follow illustrate the present invention without limiting its scope.

EXAMPLES

Example 1 - Comparative study.

This comparative study focuses on the extraction yields of phenolic compounds obtained from Borage (Borago officinalis L.) microshoots subjected to different extraction processes. These Borage microgreens were obtained from cultivation on a vertical farm and under controlled conditions.

Table 1 below describes the scoring criteria considered.

Tables 2a and 2b below provide information on (i) the different extraction processes implemented and (ii) their respective extraction yields of phenolic compounds. The fresh frozen plants underwent a freezing step at -5°C for 8 hours.

* TA = Ambient Temperature;

**Native water = Water naturally present in plants;

“*NA = Not Applicable.

* TA = Ambient Temperature; **Native water = Water naturally present in plants;

“*NA = Not Applicable.

In view of the results presented in Tables 2a and 2b above, we observe that the extraction process according to the invention (test 5) is the one comprising the fewest unit steps while remaining endowed with a yield of satisfactory extraction, despite the absence of addition of extraction solvent.

This makes it the most efficient extraction process in terms of easy implementation, safety, economical and respect for the environment (or eco-responsibility). Unexpectedly, an extraction process according to the invention is therefore particularly relevant economically and ecologically.

Example 2 - cosmetic composition for skin care

The cosmetic composition described in Table 3 below is obtained by means of a microfluidic process as described in WO2019145424.

* QSP: sufficient quantity for

** Diluted extract of interest = extract of interest according to example 1 (i.e. test 5) with a preservation phase (i.e. glycerin) in a 20/80 ratio.

Preparation protocol:

For the OF:

- The carbomer is dispersed in reverse osmosis water and stirred for 2 hours using a deflocculating blade.

- Glycerin, Propanediol (Zemea) and xanthan are then added. Following these additions, the mixture is stirred for 10 min.

- Phenoxyethanol (Microcare PE) and Pentylene glycol (Microcare PTG) are added. The mixture is stirred for 5 min.

- The diluted extract of interest is then added with stirring.

- The soda is then added with stirring, until homogenized.

For the base (BF): The soda and water are mixed using a magnetic bar for 5 min.

For the IF:

- Amodimethicone is added to the oil then mixed using a magnetic bar for 5 min.

- Heat the oil to 80°C then add the Rheopearl KL2 with magnetic stirring.

- This mixture is then placed in a water bath heated to 80°C with magnetic stirring for 1 hour.

The IF solution heated to 80°C is introduced into a syringe connected to a heater to keep the solution warm. To reduce heat losses, the microfluidic device was installed directly at the syringe outlet.

The microfluidic parameters for manufacturing the cosmetic composition are described in Table 4 below.

A macroscopic dispersion is obtained comprising a content of fatty phase drops (approximately 9%) and where the drops have an average diameter of approximately 950 μm.

Claims

1. Process for extracting at least one extract of interest obtained from at least one plant and/or at least one mushroom, the process comprising at least the steps consisting of:

(a) have at least one plant and/or at least one mushroom;

(b2) at least a second maceration step applied to the first aqueous extract obtained in step (b 1), whereby the extract of interest is obtained, and in which steps (b1) and (b2) are carried out without addition of extraction solvent, said process not comprising a step of adding solvent(s) before step (b), and said process not comprising extraction with one or more supercritical fluids.

2. Method according to claim 1, in which step (a) is carried out from a plant and/or a mushroom cultivated under controlled conditions, preferably in a cultivation unit ensuring total control of the growing conditions. cultivation, in particular ensuring controlled regulation of water, hygrometry, temperature, and in terms of air quality and light supply, and in particular obtained by hydroponic or aquaponic cultivation.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, in which the plant is chosen from plants, in particular mosses, ferns, gymnosperms and angiosperms; the seaweeds ; and their mixtures.

4. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the plant is chosen from garlic, alfalfa, almond, amaranth, dill, aragula, oats, azukis , basil, Swiss chard, beets, chard, wheat, broccoli, borage, canihua/kaniwa, carrot, celery, chervil, chia, chicory, cabbage, spring onions, chives, coriander, watercress, watercress, spelt, spinach, fennel, fenugreek, squash, sunflower, mung bean, kale, kamut, lentils, red lentils, green lentils, flax, corn, millet, mizuna, mustard, turnip, onion, barley, parsley, leek, chickpeas, peas, purslane, quinoa, radish, horseradish, rice, arugula, buckwheat, rye, sesame, soy, tatsoi, clover, cannabis, cucumber, oregano, broccoli, marshmallow, mallow, lemon balm, pansy, yarrow, Centella Asiatica, evening primrose, false pepper, shiso, purple coneflower, blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, olive , the lemon tree, the orange tree, the pomelo, the vine and in particular the grape, the strawberry, the kiwi, the cabbage, the rapeseed, the lamb's lettuce, the melon, the papaya, the mango, the pepper, the tomato, the watermelon, lychee, persimmon, apricot, apple, date, cherry, fig, pear, nectarine, artichoke, shallot, asparagus, eggplant, tea, ginger, and mixtures thereof.

5. Method according to claim 1 or 2, in which the fungus is chosen from Fungi, oomycetes, chytridiomycetes, mycetozoa and mixtures thereof, preferably from the genera Agaricus, Lentinula, Pleurotus, Grifola, Hypsizygus, Auricularia, Flammulina , Volvariella, Agrocybe, Pholiota, Tricholoma, Tremella, and their mixtures.

6. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which step (b) is carried out from at least one plant and/or at least one fresh mushroom, preferably from at least one vegetable and/or at least one fresh frozen mushroom.

7. Method according to any one of claims 1, 2 and 6, in which step (b) is carried out from a germinated seed, a microgreen or a young shoot, preferably a microgreen.

8. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which step (b1) of microwave extraction is carried out:

- at a power of between 600 W and 6000 W, preferably between 700 W and 5000 W, better still between 800 W and 4000 W, and very particularly between 1000 W and 2000 W;

- for a duration of between 1 minute and 3 hours, preferably between 2 minutes and 2 hours, better between 5 minutes and 1 hour, in particular between 1 minute and 30 minutes, even between 2 minutes and 20 minutes, and better still between 5 minutes and 10 minutes; and or - at a temperature between 20°C and 120°C, preferably between 30°C and 100°C, and better still between 40°C and 80°C.

9. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which step (b2) of extraction by maceration is carried out for a period of between 5 minutes and 5 hours, preferably between 10 minutes and 4 hours, better still between 10 minutes and 3 hours, especially between 1 hour and 2 hours, or even between 20 minutes and 40 minutes.

10. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the first aqueous extract, during step (b), in particular during step (b1) and during step (b2), remains in contact with the plant and/or fungus.

11. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which step (b1) and step (b2) are carried out within the same extraction device, and preferably within the same receptacle.

12. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises, before step (b), between steps (b1) and (b2) and/or after step (b2), at minus one additional pressing step (d).

13. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the method further comprises, after step (b2), at least one additional step (e) of filtration.

14. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the method further comprises, after step (b2), at least one additional step (f) of mixing the extract of interest, if necessary previously pressed and/or filtered, with at least one conservation phase, preferably chosen from glycerin, propanediol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, and mixtures thereof, and preferably glycerin, whereby an extract of diluted interest.

15. Method according to the preceding claim, in which the extract of interest is mixed with at least one solvent in an “extract of interest / conservation phase” ratio of between 10/90 and 60/40, preferably between 20. /80 and 50/50, and in particular between 30/70 and 40/60.

16. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the extract of interest comprises at least one active agent chosen from polyphenols, proteins, amino acids, peptides, sugars, minerals, vitamins, carotenoids, enzymes, and mixtures thereof, preferably polyphenols.

17. Composition, in particular cosmetic, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical or food, comprising at least one extract of interest obtained by means of an extraction process according to any one of the preceding claims, optionally in association with at least one physiologically acceptable medium .

18. Composition according to the preceding claim, comprising between 0.01% and 20%, preferably between 0.1% and 10%, better still between 0.5% and 5%, and very particularly between 1% and 3%, in weight of extract(s) of interest, relative to the total weight of the composition.

19. Use of at least one extract of interest obtained by means of an extraction process according to any one of claims 1 to 16, for the manufacture of a composition, in particular cosmetic, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical or food.