Extraction and Characterization of Hibiscus Sabdariffa L. Red Seeds Oil

Abstract

This study was aimed to extract the oil from Red Roselle seeds and studying the physicochemical properties of the oil. The seeds were purchased from the local market. The oil was extracted by hexane at 80oC for 6 hours using Soxhlet extractor. The proximate analysis of the samples gives the following results: ash content (4.2%); moisture content (5.6%); fiber content (20%); oil (20%); carbohydrate content (22.2%) and the protein content (28.00%). The physical properties were studied (viscosity (57.6); refractive index (1.47); specific gravity (0.963) and the chemical properties; (acid value (4), saponification value (216); ester value (212); peroxide value (7). Also the oil was characterized by (IR) spectroscopy and (UV) spectroscopy and with GC/MS which identified 21 complexes, major components are: Hexadecanoic acid, methyl ester (19.69%); 9, 12 – Octadecadienoic acid (Z, Z) -, methyl ester (28.57%) and 9 – Octadecenoic acid (Z) - , methyl ester (28.01%). The study was concluded that the Roselle seeds are very useful and rich in fiber and protein content. Also the oil can be used in cosmetics as protective agent from cancer and sun –scalds.