Effect of the Extraction Method and Conditions on the Content of Polyphenols in Buckwheat Fagopyrum esculentum Husk Extracts and Their Acetylcholinesterase-Inhibiting Activity

The effect of the extraction method and conditions on the polyphenolic composition of buckwheat Fagopyrum esculentum husk extracts and their activity in inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was studied. The extracts were obtained both by the conventional method of water–ethanol extraction and in a subcritical water medium at 120–220°C. A direct correlation was found between the anticholinesterase activity and the content of polyphenols in the extracts. The highest activity in inhibiting AChE was shown by the extract obtained in the subcritical water medium at 220°C, which contained the maximum amounts of polyphenols and flavonoids. This indicates the decisive role of these compounds in inhibiting AChE. The obtained data allow one to consider buckwheat husk extracts as inexpensive and renewable sources of polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids with P-vitamin and neuroprotective activity.