Extraction, Chemical Characterization, and Functional Modification of Moringa oleifera Seed Oil for Health Applications

Abstract

Essential oils (EOs) are valuable plant-derived extracts with diverse applications in medicine, cosmetics, food preservation, and industry due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Among these, Moringa oleifera, widely known as the “tree of life,” is gaining recognition for its nutritional richness and therapeutic potential. This study aimed to extract, modify, and characterize Moringa oleifera seed oil to evaluate its physicochemical and chemical properties for potential applications. The seed oil was extracted using the Soxhlet apparatus, yielding a pale-yellow oil with a peanut-like odor. Preliminary analysis revealed a high proportion of monounsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, which contribute to its oxidative stability. The crude oil was assessed for pH, specific gravity, viscosity, saponification value, acid value, and iodine value. To enhance its functional properties, the oil was chemically modified through iodine treatment, with the goal of improving iodine content and altering fatty acid composition. Advanced analyses using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were performed to determine the fatty acid profile and chemical constituents of both crude and modified oil. Results indicated that iodine modification caused significant differences in viscosity, iodine value, and acid value, suggesting structural changes that may influence stability and bioactivity. The characterization confirmed the presence of valuable bioactive compounds, reinforcing its potential as a multifunctional bioresource. In conclusion, Moringa oleifera seed oil demonstrates promising physicochemical and chemical properties, both in crude and modified forms, making it suitable for applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, food processing, and biodiesel production. This study provides scientific evidence to support the industrial and therapeutic relevance of Moringa seed oil as a sustainable natural resource.