Novel Insights into the Fatty Acid Composition of Yemeni Prickly Pear, Colocynth, and Grape Seed Oil

[摘要] ObjectiveThis study aimed to characterize the fatty acid composition of Yemeni prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L.), colocynth (Citrullus colocynthis L.), and grape (Vitis vinifera L.) seed oils, and to evaluate their relevance for food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications.MethodsMature seeds were collected from local markets in Sana’a, Yemen (March–July 2024). Oils were extracted using Soxhlet with n-hexane, converted into fatty acid methyl esters, and analyzed by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID).ResultsColocynth seed oil contained (59.37 ± 2.10%) linoleic acid, highlighting its similarity to sunflower and linseed oils. Prickly pear seed oil was rich in elaidic acid (21.35 ± 0.92%) and oleic acid (13.37 ± 0.55%), while grape seed oil showed elaidic acid (28.79 ± 1.12%) and oleic acid (22.90 ± 0.95%) as major components. All three oils demonstrated high proportions of unsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic and oleic acids, which are linked to cardiovascular protection, anti-inflammatory activity, and improved skin barrier function.ConclusionThis study provides the first comprehensive fatty acid profiles of Yemeni colocynth and grape seed oils. The predominance of linoleic and oleic acids underscores their nutritional importance, while the detection of uncommon fatty acids expands their chemical diversity. These findings establish a foundation for valorizing fruit seed by-products into high-value oils for food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, contributing to sustainable resource utilization and regional biodiversity.

[发布日期] 2026-07-01

[关键词] fatty acids;seed oil;linoleic;oleic;GC-FID;Opuntia ficus-indica;Citrullus colocynthis;Vitis vinifera