Analysis and processing of Cleome viscosa seed and oil

Abstract

The seeds of Cleome viscosa, a weed widely distributed in India, are brown, small (1500-1600 seeds/g) and gritty with a pointed end. The seeds containing 26% oil yield 18% oil on crushing in an expeller. The oil is dark brown or green but is easily refined to a light-coloured oil. The physical and chemical characteristics of the seed and oil were determined. The fatty acid profile of the oil is palmitic 10.6%, stearic 4.9%, oleic 14.4% and linoleic 68.6%. From summary.