GC-FID/MS Analysis of Fatty Acids in Indian Cultivars of Moringa oleifera: Potential Sources of PUFA.

In the present investigation, the fatty acid
profile was analysed in vegetative and reproductive parts of
eight commercially cultivated Indian cultivars of Moringa
oleifera and verified by gas chromatography mass spectra.
In leaves, a-linolenic acid (C18:3, cis-9,12,15) was found in
the highest quantity (49–59 %) followed by palmitic acid
(C16:0) (16–18 %), and linoleic acid (C18:2, cis-9,12)
(6–13 %). The total content of saturated fatty acids and
unsaturated fatty acids showed a ratio of 0.33 (cv. DHANRAJ)
to 0.39 (cv. PKM-2) in leaves, 0.53 in flowers and
0.56 in tender pods. Similarly, polyunsaturated fatty acids
and total monounsaturated fatty acids were found in a ratio
of 5.68 (cv. DHANRAJ) to 9.71 (cv. CO-1) in leaves, 1.11
in flowers and 2.79 in tender pods. The total lipid content
was recorded in the range of 1.92 % (flowers) to 4.82 %
(leaves, cv. CO-1). When considering health benefits, M.
oleifera leaves contain low amounts of saturated fatty
acids, a high mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acid content,
which can enhance the health benefits of Moringa-based
products.