This research compares drying kinetics and phytochemical retention in justicia adhatoda leaves, suggesting microwave drying improves quality retention.
Key Points
Microwave drying at 360 W maximized antioxidant activity and phytochemical retention in justicia adhatoda leaves.
Page's model accurately predicted drying behavior with R² of 0.999 for cabinet tray drying and 0.996 for microwave drying.
Comparative analysis showed cabinet tray drying took longer while microwave drying retained better color quality.
Results suggest that optimized microwave drying could enhance the commercial value of medicinal herbs.