High-amylose starch forms complexes with bioactive compounds present in the Amphipterygium adstringent ethanol extract.

Plants have been used for thousands of years to treat health problems. The bioactive compounds in parts of them are associated with cures for some diseases. The protection and release of bioactive compounds (bioaccessibility) are key issues in producing a therapeutic effect. Amylose and amylopectin, starch macromolecules, produce interactions with bioactive compounds, resulting in the formation of complexes. This study aimed to analyze the bioactive compounds in the complex produced between Amphipterygium adstringens (AA, cuachalalate) extract and high-amylose starch. Both the extract and the complex were analyzed by ultra-high-resolution liquid chromatography. AA extract showed compounds associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and anti-tumoral effects. The complex showed reduced compounds in the extract, and some compounds were not complexed with starch. The bioactive compounds present in the extract of medicinal plants can be complexed with amylose for their protection when ingested orally.