Current Situation and Trend of Subcritical Fluid Extraction of Natural Products

In order to investigate the research hotspots and trends in subcritical fluid extraction of natural products, the relevant literatures included in the Science Citation Index Expanded (SCIE) database of web of science core collection were searched and selected. The selected literatures were analyzed and reviewed. The analysis revealed 252 published papers originating from 266 institutions across 53 countries, with China contributing the highest number of publications. The majority of the research institutions were universities and research institutes. Subcritical fluid extraction predominantly utilized solvents such as subcritical water, propane and butane. Subcritical water extraction has been applied not only to the extraction of essential oils, polyphenols and flavonoids, but also extended to the production of functional products, including plant proteins, soluble dietary fibers, and so on. Research on subcritical propane and butane extraction has focused on the development of novel special plant seed oils, health care components in oil and grease, and exploring the reuse of health-promoting ingredients and high-quality proteins in oil meals.