Combination of Ulva lactuca and Moringa oleifera Extracts as Additives in Salt Production and Evaluation of Their Activities
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Hypertension is a major cause of mortality in Indonesia. Ulva lactuca can be utilized as a raw material for low-sodium, potassium-rich salt production, while Moringa oleifera may further enhance potassium content.Objective: To determine the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of Ulva lactuca and Moringa oleifera extracts.Methods: Proximate composition, extraction yield, mineral and heavy metal contents, phytochemical constituents, DPPH radical-scavenging activity, and CUPRAC antioxidant capacity were evaluated.Results: In Ulva lactuca, ash was the major component (40.08%) and protein the lowest (11.73%), whereas in Moringa oleifera, moisture was highest (25.43%) and carbohydrate lowest (6.94%). Ulva lactuca contained 109.65 mg/g sodium and 124.24 mg/g potassium, while Moringa oleifera contained 0.79 mg/g sodium and 5.28 mg/g potassium. The Na:K ratios were 0.88 and 0.15, respectively. Both extracts exhibited very strong antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 11.265 µg/ml (Ulva lactuca) and 6.828 µg/ml (Moringa oleifera). Phytochemical screening revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, and tannins in both extracts. The antioxidant capacities of Ulva lactuca and Moringa oleifera extracts were 55.849 ± 5.59 and 0.013 ± 2.35 µmol ascorbic acid equivalent/g extract, respectively.Conclusion: Ulva lactuca and Moringa oleifera are suitable alternative raw materials for salt production due to their favorable Na:K ratios and strong antioxidant activity. These characteristics support their potential development as functional low-sodium, potassium-enriched salt products that may contribute to healthier dietary strategies for hypertension prevention and management.
Source: Jurnal Ilmiah Medicamento
Language: English
Subfield: Aquatic Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7225425815