Moringa Seed Oil (Moringa Oleifera)
Moringa Seed Oil (Moringa Oleifera)
Buy Moringa Seed Oil (Moringa oleifera)Moringa seed oil, also known as "Ben oil" or "Behen oil," is a premium, light yellow oil extracted from the seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree, native to the Himalayan region and widely cultivated in semi-arid and subtropical areas, with India as the largest producer2. Renowned for its high oleic acid content and stability, moringa oil is valued for both nutritional and cosmetic applications.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Appearance: Light yellow, liquid at room temperature23
Flavor: Similar to peanut oil (unrefined)
Melting Point: ~19°C
Iodine Value: ~662
Saponification Value: ~185 mg KOH/g oil2
Viscosity: 17.7 (unit varies by method)
Specific Gravity: ~0.90 at 24°C2
Refractive Index: ~1.46 at 40°C2
Smoke Point: ~201°C (higher than olive oil)2
Extraction Methods
Cold Pressing: Mechanical extraction yields high-quality oil, though with somewhat lower yield (about 69% of total oil content)2.
Solvent Extraction: Using n-hexane or petroleum ether, this method achieves the highest oil yield (up to 41.9%)123.
Traditional: In rural areas, boiling de-husked seeds in water and skimming the oil from the surface is also practiced2.
Chemical Composition
Moringa seed oil is characterized by a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid (up to 74%), with lower amounts of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids24:
| Fatty Acid | Content (%) |
|---|---|
| Oleic acid | ~73.6 |
| Palmitic acid | ~6–8 |
| Stearic acid | ~5–8 |
| Behenic acid | ~6–8 |
| Linoleic acid | ~0.7 |
| Arachidic acid | ~3–4 |
| Myristic acid | Trace |
Other components include sterols, tocopherols (vitamin E), hydrocarbons, and minor esters34. The high oleic acid content makes moringa oil similar to olive oil in nutritional value and culinary performance24.
Uses and Benefits
Skin Care
Deeply moisturizes and softens dry skin
Conditions and heals chapped lips
Effective for rough, dry skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis
Rich in antioxidants and nutrients that help fight free radical damage, supporting youthful, radiant skin
Contains cytokinins and vitamin C, which support collagen production and skin cell repair, reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Anti-Aging
Revitalizes dull, tired, and aging skin
Improves the appearance of wrinkles and helps prevent sagging
Promotes cell growth and delays skin tissue damage
Antiseptic and Anti-Inflammatory
Assists in healing minor cuts, scrapes, bruises, boils, and insect bites
Nutritional and Culinary
High in heart-healthy oleic acid, making it a nutritious edible oil for cooking and salad dressings12
Stable at high temperatures due to its low polyunsaturated fatty acid content and high smoke point2
Summary Table
| Property | Value/Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Light yellow liquid |
| Main Fatty Acid | Oleic acid (~74%) |
| Extraction Methods | Cold pressing, solvent extraction |
| Saponification Value | ~185 mg KOH/g oil |
| Iodine Value | ~66 |
| Smoke Point | ~201°C |
| Key Benefits | Moisturizing, anti-aging, antioxidant, edible oil |
Moringa seed oil is a stable, nutrient-rich oil ideal for skin and hair care, anti-aging formulations, and as a healthy cooking oil. Its high oleic acid content and antioxidant profile make it a valuable addition to both cosmetic and culinary routines