Project Abstract

Abstract
Mucuna pruriens var. utilis is a valuable leguminous plant known for its various pharmacological properties. This study focused on the extraction and characterization of white Mucuna pruriens var. utilis seed oil. The seeds were collected, cleaned, and subjected to oil extraction using a Soxhlet extractor with petroleum ether as the solvent. The extracted oil was then analyzed for its physicochemical properties including yield, color, odor, acid value, saponification value, iodine value, and fatty acid composition. The oil extraction process yielded a substantial amount of oil from the white Mucuna pruriens var. utilis seeds. The oil was found to be pale yellow in color with a characteristic odor. The acid value of the oil was determined to be within an acceptable range, indicating minimal free fatty acid content. The saponification value and iodine value were also determined, providing insights into the oil's potential applications in various industries. Furthermore, the fatty acid composition of the white Mucuna pruriens var. utilis seed oil was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The analysis revealed the presence of various fatty acids including oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid. These fatty acids play a crucial role in determining the oil's nutritional and functional properties. The characterization of the white Mucuna pruriens var. utilis seed oil provides valuable information for potential applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. The presence of essential fatty acids such as linoleic acid makes the oil a potential candidate for nutraceutical formulations. Additionally, the oil's mild odor and pale color make it suitable for cosmetic formulations. In conclusion, the extraction and characterization of white Mucuna pruriens var. utilis seed oil have been successfully carried out in this study. The physicochemical properties and fatty acid composition of the oil have been thoroughly analyzed, providing a comprehensive understanding of its potential applications. Further research can focus on exploring the bioactive compounds present in the oil and evaluating its therapeutic properties for various health benefits.

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