Moringa Seed Oil (Moringa Oleifera)

Moringa Seed Oil (Moringa Oleifera)
Buy Moringa Seed Oil (Moringa oleifera)

Moringa seed oil, also known as "Ben oil" or "Behen oil," is a premium, light yellow oil extracted from the seeds of the Moringa oleifera tree, native to the Himalayan region and widely cultivated in semi-arid and subtropical areas, with India as the largest producer2. Renowned for its high oleic acid content and stability, moringa oil is valued for both nutritional and cosmetic applications.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Appearance: Light yellow, liquid at room temperature23

• Flavor: Similar to peanut oil (unrefined)

• Melting Point: ~19°C

• Iodine Value: ~662

• Saponification Value: ~185 mg KOH/g oil2

• Viscosity: 17.7 (unit varies by method)

• Specific Gravity: ~0.90 at 24°C2

• Refractive Index: ~1.46 at 40°C2

• Smoke Point: ~201°C (higher than olive oil)2

Extraction Methods

• Cold Pressing: Mechanical extraction yields high-quality oil, though with somewhat lower yield (about 69% of total oil content)2.

• Solvent Extraction: Using n-hexane or petroleum ether, this method achieves the highest oil yield (up to 41.9%)123.

• Traditional: In rural areas, boiling de-husked seeds in water and skimming the oil from the surface is also practiced2.

Chemical Composition

Moringa seed oil is characterized by a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid (up to 74%), with lower amounts of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids24:

Other components include sterols, tocopherols (vitamin E), hydrocarbons, and minor esters34. The high oleic acid content makes moringa oil similar to olive oil in nutritional value and culinary performance24.

Uses and Benefits

Skin Care

• Deeply moisturizes and softens dry skin

• Conditions and heals chapped lips

• Effective for rough, dry skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis

• Rich in antioxidants and nutrients that help fight free radical damage, supporting youthful, radiant skin

• Contains cytokinins and vitamin C, which support collagen production and skin cell repair, reducing fine lines and wrinkles

Anti-Aging

• Revitalizes dull, tired, and aging skin

• Improves the appearance of wrinkles and helps prevent sagging

• Promotes cell growth and delays skin tissue damage

Antiseptic and Anti-Inflammatory

• Assists in healing minor cuts, scrapes, bruises, boils, and insect bites

Nutritional and Culinary

• High in heart-healthy oleic acid, making it a nutritious edible oil for cooking and salad dressings12

• Stable at high temperatures due to its low polyunsaturated fatty acid content and high smoke point2

Summary Table

Moringa seed oil is a stable, nutrient-rich oil ideal for skin and hair care, anti-aging formulations, and as a healthy cooking oil. Its high oleic acid content and antioxidant profile make it a valuable addition to both cosmetic and culinary routines