The component fatty acids of Citrullus colocynthis seed fat

Abstract

The composition of the seed fat of Citrullus colocynthis as established by the present investigation is palmitic 10.40%; stearic 6.52%; arachidic 1.70%; oleic 20.92%; linoleic 58.81%; and linolenic 1.65%. This composition agrees largely with the general trend of the family and of the genus Citrullus specifically, being rich in total unsaturation (81.9%) with linoleic acid as the major component. The presence of conjugated triene has not been detected. The results show the influence of environmental factors on the composition of the seed fat when compared with that of the seed fat of Algerian origin. The composition indicates the possible use of the oil for edible and non‐edible purposes. Copyright © 1964 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd