An Investigation into the Physico-Chemical Properties of Abeere (Hunteria Umbellate) Seed, Seed Oil and Oil Cake

Abstract

This study investigates the physico-chemical properties of the seeds, seed oil, and oil cake of abeere (Hunteria umbellata), a plant indigenous to certain regions known for its various economic and nutritional benefits. The research focuses on evaluating the physical and chemical characteristics of the seeds oil and cake. Abeere seed oil was extracted using soxhlet extractor with n-hexane as the solvent. The seed oil and seed cake was analyzed for physical properties, proximate and the mineral composition. The results demonstrate that seeds possess a high oil yield of 91% with a light brown and brown colour for the oil and cake respectively. Additionally, the oil cake is shown to be a valuable of protein, making it suitable for animal feed and potential plant-based protein applications. The sodium, iron and the phosphorus content of the seed oil was found to be higher than that of seed cake. Also, a significant difference was observed in the carbohydrate and iron content of the seed oil and seed cake at the p