Obtención de pectina a partir de residuos agrícolas de limón (citrus limon) por el método de hidrólisis ácida y su aplicación en el área farmacéutica

Abstract

The main objective of this research study was to obtain pectin from lemon (Citrus limon) agricultural residues by the acid hydrolysis method and its application in the pharmaceutical area. Through an experimental and quantitative study. The study population was made up of the organic residues of the lemon that were processed, at the level of the restaurants in the downtown area of the city of Riobamba. For the development of the investigation, the pre-treatment of the residues was carried out and in the pectin extraction began, three variables were taken into account, such as pH, time, and extraction temperature. As a result, it was obtained that the best treatment was given under conditions such as pH 1.5, a temperature of 80oC, and an extraction time of 80 minutes, with a chemical yield of 7.77%, regarding the physical-chemical analysis, a humidity value of 3.2%, ash 1.49, equivalent weight 1250 mg/mEq, free acidity of 0.0008 mEq/g, methoxyl percentage of 6.90%, degree of esterification of 84.75% and in the percentage of galacturonic anhydrous acid was obtained 92.40%. Determining that pectin, being high methoxyl, has a capacity as a gelling and stabilizing agent. A salicylic acid-based body cream was also made, determining that the product met the organoleptic characteristics and an adequate pH to guarantee its use at a dermal level. It was concluded that the pectin obtained from lemon waste complied with the quality parameters and is useful at a pharmaceutical level as it is a stabilizing agent for emulsions. It is recommended to perform an adequate pre-treatment of the organic waste and promote the use of pectin at an industrial level, as it is a very good quality pectin.