The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of drying on the extraction yield of coumarin from guaco leaves. Six drying treatments were used, being room air, heated air at 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80ºC. A tray dryer was used with liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as heating source. The extraction yield of coumarin, after drying, was compared to the values obtained from the fresh plant (control treatment). Coumarin extraction was carried out by using the heat method, in water bath at 65ºC, and identification and quantification were done by means of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Considering the obtained results, the temperature of the drying air at 50ºC led to the best result for the extraction yield of coumarin in guaco leaves.
Medicinal plants; drying technique; Mikania glomerata; guaco
