Compressed fluids and Soxhlet extraction for the valorization of compounds from Colombian cashew (Anacardium occidentale) nut shells aimed at a cosmetic application

The management of cashew nut shells in Vichada, Colombia, is a matter of deep concern for local farmers since this non-edible biomass accumulates in the farms and generates pollution. This study explores the valorization of cashew nut shells through supercritical fluid, subcritical water, and Soxhlet extraction techniques to recover valuable compounds for the formulation of a cosmetic cream. The profile of metabolites of the extracts was studied, and the cytotoxicity was determined. Supercritical fluid extraction showed high selectivity to phenolic compounds (134 +/- 4.6 mg/mL). Soxhlet and subcritical water extractions recovered sugars and organic acids. It was demonstrated that including cashew extracts in the cream formulation resulted in similar rheology behavior compared to a commercial cream. The use of non-conventional extraction techniques to obtain natural com-pounds provides a novel perspective on the valorization of this biomass which could increase the circularity of the cashew agroindustry in Colombia.

Automated summary

This study explores the valorization of cashew nut shells through supercritical fluid, subcritical water, and Soxhlet extraction techniques. The results show that supercritical fluid extraction is highly selective to phenolic compounds, while Soxhlet and subcritical water extractions can recover sugars and organic acids. It is also found that including cashew extracts in the cream formulation results in similar rheology behavior compared to a commercial cream.