Optimization of Solvent Extraction of Moringa (Moringa Oleifera) Seed Kernel Oil Using Response Surface Methodology

Extraction of seed kernel oil from moringa (Moringa oleifera) was investigated with hexane, petroleum ether and acetone as the first extraction medium at various kernel particle size, extraction temperature and residence time, which were called as independent variables. Central composite rotatable design (CCRD) of experiments was used to study the effect of solvent type, particle size, extraction temperature and residence time of solvent on the oil yield, which was called as dependent variable. The maximum oil yield of 33.1% for hexane, 31.8% for petroleum ether and 31.1% for acetone was obtained. Among the three solvents, hexane yielded the maximum oil from moringa seed kernels. Among three process parameters studied, particle size had the most significant effect on the oil yield followed by extraction temperature and time for all the solvents. Response surface methodology technique was used to optimize the independent variables for maximum oil extraction. From the optimized values of particle size (0.62 mm), extraction temperature (56.5°C) and residence time (7 h), maximum oil yield obtained was 33.5%, using hexane. Optimized values of independent variables for maximum yield were varied for other two solvents. This protocol provides improved opportunities for the medicinal use of moringa oil in addition to its popularity as a vegetable in south Asia.