Physicochemical and Amino acid Evaluation of Hura crepitans Seeds

Abstract

Physico-chemical properties, amino acid profile, fatty acid and of Hura crepitans Seeds were evaluated. Fatty acid analysis revealed that palmitic acid (24.12%, stearic acid (16.86%), Oleic acid (56.08%), pentafluropropionic acid (0.87%) and non-fatty acid (2.07%). Hura crepitans seed indicate high level of unsaturated fatty acid mainly Oleic acid (56.08%). Physico-chemical analysis was carried out on soxhlet extracted oil (n-hexane) has the following properties: acid value (5.6±0.19 mgKOH/g), Saponification value (92.57±0.94 mgKOH/g). Iodine value (90.42±0.023gI₂/100g). Free fatty acid (2.9±0.93 mgKOH/g), Calorific value (43,719.59±0.90 kJ/kg). Amino acid profile revealed the presence of 18 amino acids. Sulphur containing amino acids (Cysteine and methionine) are the most limiting amino acid for adult and children. While lysine and threonine are 2^nd and 3^rd limiting amino acid for children. The overall results indicate that if the seeds are properly utilized, they could be used as a Protein supplement, bio-fuel and could be used industrially for soap making.