Characterization And Organoleptic Evaluation Of Balanites Aegyptiaca Fixed Oil From South-West Algeria

Abstract

Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. is known as the desert date since it holds traditional worth for food usage and medical treatment alongside cosmetic usage in dry regions (Abdelaziz et al., 2020; Al-Thobaiti & Zeid, 2018). The research analyzes the physical and chemical characteristics as well as extraction techniques and possible uses of fixed oil sourced from Balanites aegyptiaca seeds gathered from South-West Algeria where the climate stands out for its distinctive attributes (Benarba, 2016; Hirche et al., 2011). The oil sustained its bioactive components through the implementation of cold press extraction methods according to Çakaloğlu et al. (2018). The laboratory analyzed the extracted oil through established methodologies to evaluate fatty acid profiles and test oxidative stability together with measuring antioxidant activity as reported in Daga et al. (2022) and Gharby et al. (2015). Sensory testing together with functional parameters helped determine the appropriate use of the extracted oil for both cosmetic and nutraceutical purposes (Clapham et al., 2023; Drake, 2007). Balanites aegyptiaca oil contains significant unsaturated fatty acids with strong antioxidant capabilities and acceptable sensory attributes according to investigations of desert plants by Al-Thobaiti & Zeid (2019) and Gomaa et al. (2022). The study provides evidence that Balanites aegyptiaca should be developed into a valuable sustainable oil for multiple industrial purposes.