Dunaliella salina is a type of halophile unicellular green micro-algae. These are living in the water-salt ecosystem. These algae contain beta-carotene a natural source they are important in the cosmetics and food industries as compared to other green microalgae species. They have bi-flagellated, pear-shaped cells, but lack a rigid polysaccharide cell wall instead of a thin plasma membrane present. It is a rich source of beta-carotene and mixed carotenoids that are B-carotene, A-Carotene, lutein, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, astaxanthin. It also contains the important all-trans beta-carotene isomer and a special pro-vitamin A nutrient that can be converted to retinol in the body as required, thus these are a great natural source of safe, non-toxic vitamin A.. salina can reproduce asexually through the division of motile vegetative cells and the fusion of two equal gametes into a singular zygote by sexual reproduction. The below figure represents a salt pond containing Dunaliella saline
Part used: Plant
Preparation of extract:
Cells reached a maximum specific growth rate (18–20 d) then Dunaliella salina cells extraction was done. A homogeneous suspension of D. salina from each triplicate flask was taken in graduated falcons. then centrifuged for 15 min at 5000 pm. After removing the supernatant Pellet obtained then it was washed with distilled water. then again centrifuged for 10 min at 5000 rpm and to remove extra salts. The pellet was dried at 37 °C for 48 h. then resuspended for 15 sec in 100% ethanol with strong vortexing. Using ultrasonication for 10 min. the cell wall was disrupted. For 4 days cells were homogenized with solvents and then filtered using 0.2 μm filter units to get crude ethanol extract. Finally, Under reduced pressure, the solvents were removed by a rotary evaporator, and extracts were reconstituted in dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO)
Benefits:
- They contain antioxidants and nutritional supplements.
- Helps support and maintain vitality and general wellbeing.
- They maintain healthy skin and eyes.
- They maintain a healthy immune system.
- They Reduce premature aging.
- They Protect against free radical damage.
- They help in the maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels.
- They are used as a food coloring agent.
Side effect:
The large dose may cause discoloration of the skin. There are no significant side effects of Dunaliella salina on the hematological and biochemical studies.
Dose:
It is safe up to 100mg/kg body weight.
Reference:
Book of Pharmacognosy, Book Herbal Drug technology, Wikipedia, etc.
