Process characterization for tisane development using pomegranate waste: an herbal drink optimization strategy

Abstract

The present study aimed to utilize pomegranate waste in the form of its peel and seed for the development of an herbal extract called “tisane”. A series of preliminary evaluations were performed where the dried pomegranate peel powder (PPP) and pomegranate seed powder (PSP) were studied for proximate analysis viz. moisture, crude protein, crude fat, ash, crude fiber and carbohydrate content. Notably, higher macromolecule percentages were recorded in both peel and seed powder, with peel containing 79.05% carbohydrate content and seed displaying 34% crude fiber content. The study then explored various blends of PPP and PSP viz. 9 : 1, 7 : 3, 6 : 4, and 5 : 5, resulting in an optimized blend, B-73 (7PPP:3PSP), exhibiting the highest antioxidant potential (98.7%), total phenolic content (46.926 mg GAE/100 g), and total flavonoid content (91 mg CE/100 g) along with a higher diffusivity rate (0.678 g min⁻¹). The combination of PPP and PSP showed better results with respect to the antioxidant behavior when compared with the individual contribution of PPP and PSP. Furthermore, analysis of total solubility solids (TSS), pH and color of tisane prepared from different blends was carried out. In sensory evaluation, blend D-55 showed the highest overall acceptability score (8.7) surpassing other blends as well as market samples. Despite this, B-73 emerged as the best-formulated blend, boasting the highest concentration of bioactive constituents, suggesting its potential for promoting well-being when consumed as an herbal drink. This research underscores the innovative use of pomegranate by-products to develop a healthy beverage rich in bioactive components, offering a sustainable approach to utilizing pomegranate waste.