Extraction and Characterisation of Oils from Cussonia bateri (Jansa) and Chrysobalanus icaco (Omillo) Seeds as Potential Renewable Resources
Egwuatu C. I. *
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
Nnaji C. E.
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
Obumselu O. F.
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
Okonkwo C. P.
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: As global concern increases regarding the competition between food and industrial uses of edible oils, attention is turning toward non-edible and unconventional seeds as sustainable substitutes. The growing demand for plant-derived oils has spurred research into alternative, underutilised botanical sources beyond conventional edible oils.
Aims: This study seeks to extract and characterize oils from the seeds of Cussonia bateri (Jansa) and Chrysobalanus icaco (Omillo).
Methodology: The study was carried out at Biochem Analytics Laboratory, Enugu, from June 2024 to June 2025. The oils were extracted using the Soxhlet method with n-hexane as solvent and characterized for key physicochemical properties, including oil yield, density, viscosity, acid value, saponification value, iodine value, and moisture content. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS), were employed to determine functional groups and chemical composition.
Results: The results revealed that Jansa seeds yielded significantly more oil (50.21%) than Omillo seeds (10.77%). FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of key functional groups—O–H, C=O, and C–H vibrations—commonly found in triglycerides and fatty acid esters. These spectral features were consistent with GC–MS results, which identified fatty acid methyl esters and aliphatic compounds as the dominant constituents in both oils.
Conclusion: The study highlights the potential of Cussonia bateri (Jansa) and Chrysobalanus icaco (Omillo) seed oils as sustainable, renewable resources. Jansa oil shows promise for biodiesel and lubricant production, while Omillo oil is suited for personal care and cleaning product formulations.
Keywords: Jansa oil, Omillo oil, physicochemical characterization, GC–MS, FTIR