Determination of oligoelements content of plant material and assessment of bioactive compounds from calendula officinalis lyophilized extract

The marigold extracts are used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, decongestive, antiseptic, antifungal, antimicrobial and immunostimulating properties. Existing studies have partially proved these properties, but are incomplete with regard to the possibility of standardizing the extract using the best working conditions so as it to be included in dietary supplements. The purpose of this study is to investigate the chemical composition of the marigold extracts, their contents in flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds, as well as to determine the contents in oligoelements of the plant material through the ICP-OES method. Based on the results of this study we conclude that a complete extraction may be accomplished after lyophilizing the solution of hydroalcoholic extract, followed by extraction in acid medium so as to permit a better assessment of the bioactive compounds.