Moringa oil production, the process!
Moringa oil is extracted from the moringa oleifera plant, and can be produced in different ways. For pharmaceutical purposes, moringa seeds are mechanically pressed in a cold-pressing process. For this, the oil is extracted from whole mature moringa seeds with a press, the degree of extraction being dependent on the capacity of the press and the inlet temperature of the seed. In the press type, the oil reaches a temperature of between 30 to 40 °C. The cloudy oil is filtered to remove fine particles. Additional levels of purification can be efficiently included. As an alternative purification system, the oil is left in storage long enough for the solids to settle and then removed by decanting. For technical reasons, on the other hand, hot pressing, which does not exceed 55°C, is used. For this purpose, the moringa seeds are first preheated very gently in a special heat conditioner and then pressed with a screw press. This makes it possible to maximise the degree of extraction without altering the quality of the oil or cake resulting from the process. Press cakes can also increase the oil yield by undergoing solvent extraction, if required by the customer. The resulting oil is pure and, depending on the use, may need to undergo a specific further refining process or step.
Moringa oil – shelf life & properties
Depending on the production method, cold-pressed in-shell moringa oil is pale yellow or greenish in colour and has a mild, pleasant smell, a light perfumed odour and is described as herbaceous-floral. It is rich in oleic acid (a monounsaturated fatty acid), linoleic acid (a polyunsaturated fatty acid), antioxidants such as vitamin E, and beneficial phytochemicals such as isothiocyanates.
Cold-pressed oil contains high levels of β-sitosterol (up to 50.07%), stigmasterol (up to 17.27%) and campesterol (up to 15.13%). Moringa oil has a flash point of around 250°C and a boiling point of over 225°C, which makes it difficult to ignite. The solidification point is around -25°C and the melting point is between 18.9°C and 19°C.
The shelf life of moringa oil can vary depending on several factors, such as the quality of the oil, the way it is processed and stored. However, under the right conditions, moringa oil usually has a relatively long shelf life of 1-2 years. To prolong shelf life, it should be stored in a cool, dark, dry place, away from direct sunlight and excessive heat. A cool, dark place is ideal to prevent oxidation. Store in an opaque, airtight container to protect from light and air.
Discover the versatility of moringa oil – your all-rounder for health, beauty and cooking!
The healing power of moringa oil – in pharmacy and medicine
Moringa oil has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and nourishing properties for skin and hair. It is also traditionally used in herbal medicine for various applications.
In the pharmaceutical industry, moringa oil is used as a basis for the formulation of medicines and dietary supplements due to its health-promoting properties, such as its antioxidant and oleic acid content.
Radiant beauty from nature: Moringa oil for skin and hair!
Moringa oil is used in the manufacture of cosmetics and body care products such as moisturizers, lotions, shampoos, conditioners and soaps. Its high content of oleic acid and antioxidants makes it beneficial for skin and hair.
Unleash the flavor: Moringa oil for healthy and long-lasting kitchen creations!
It is used in the food industry for products such as salad dressings, sauces, margarine and baked goods. Moringa oil is known for its healthy fatty acid profile and its ability to resist oxidation.
Moringa oil in folk medicine
Moringa oil has been used in folk medicine in various cultures for centuries for its potential health benefits. Some of the traditional and popular uses of Moringa oil in medicine are:
- skin care: Moringa oil is used for the external treatment of skin conditions such as rashes, acne, minor burns and insect bites due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is also used as a moisturizer.
- hair and scalp: It is applied to the hair and scalp to promote hair growth, improve scalp health and prevent dryness and dandruff.
- relief of pain and inflammation: In some cultures, moringa oil is used internally or massaged onto sore areas to relieve muscle and joint pain.
- digestive health: it is believed that moringa oil can help with digestive problems such as constipation due to its oleic acid content and natural laxative properties.
- immune system boost: In some traditions, moringa oil is used as a tonic to boost the immune system due to its antioxidant and essential nutrient content.
- wound treatment: Moringa oil is used to clean and disinfect minor wounds and cuts due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- blood pressure control: Its potential blood pressure lowering effect has been studied, and some people use it to maintain healthy blood pressure.
Moringa oil in veterinary medicine
Moringa oil is also used in veterinary medicine for its potential health benefits for animals. Some of the uses in veterinary medicine are:
- dietary supplement: Moringa oil is used as a dietary supplement for animals, especially poultry and livestock. It is a source of essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and proteins and is used to improve the general health and performance of animals. Press cakes are particularly suitable for supplementing animal feed.
- to improve coat quality: Moringa oil has been used to improve coat quality in pets such as dogs and cats. It is believed that the nutrients contained in the oil can contribute to a healthier, shinier coat. Press cakes can be an interesting alternative for pets’ diets in moderate amounts.
- support of the immune system: As in folk medicine for humans, moringa oil is also used in animals to strengthen the immune system and prevent disease.
- treatment of skin problems: Moringa oil is used topically on animals to treat skin problems such as irritations, insect bites and eczema. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help heal and relieve discomfort.
- parasite control: Some studies have investigated the potential of moringa oil to control internal parasites in animals.
We will be happy to advise you on this seed and show you options. Contact us
In addition to our own knowledge gained through testing on our presses, the following sources were used to create the article:
- Öle, natürlich kaltgepresst, Basiswissen & Rezepte, Marcus Hartmann, Hädecke, 2008
- Heilende Öle, Pflanzenöle als Nahrungs- und Heilmittel, Neue Erkenntnisse, Günter Albert Ulmer Verlag Tuningen
- Lexikon der pflanzlichen Fette und Öle, Krist, Buchbauer, Klausberger, SpringerWienNewYork, 2008
- www.wikipedia.de
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814604007423
- en.wikipedia.org
