Fatty Acid Profile of Momordica Charantia Seeds Oil: a Focus on Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLnA)

The vegetative part and the fruit of M. charantia are widely used in traditional medicine. But studies relating to the extraction, physico-chemical characterization and fatty acid profile of M. charantia seed oil are almost non-existent. In this context, methyl esters from M. charantia and M. balsamina oils were extracted and fatty acid profiles were explored. In these oils obtained after extraction, the analysis of fatty acid methyl esters allowed the identification and quantification of 07 fatty acids. The oils from the seeds of M. charantia are richer in CLnA, particularly in stearic acids and α-eleostearic acid, compared to the oil from the seeds of M. balsamina which is richer in punicic acid and oleic acid. These two species constitute a good source of CLnA isomers which play an essential rôle against cardiovascular diseases such as cancers. However, M. balsamina oil is higher in monounsaturated fatty acids compared to M. charantia oil. Ultimately, the valorization of this research work allows a good knowledge and a potential use of these two species of cucurbits for the benefit of the whole population.