Processes for making caralluma extracts and uses

摘要

Disclosed is a process for producing an extract of plant matter from one or more Caralluma species wherein said process yields an extract comprising substantially the same type and proportions of pregnane glycosides as the original plant matter, said process comprising: one or more extraction steps using at least one solvent or solvent mixture wherein said extraction is performed at a temperature not exceeding 80°C for a time period not exceeding 24 hours; and one or more concentration steps to concentrate the extract until the desired concentration of pregnane glycosides is obtained; wherein the solvent or solvent mixture and the number of concentration steps are selected such as to prevent or minimise the decomposition of said pregnane glycosides and to prevent or minimise the extraction of non-pregnane glycoside matter during said process.