Changes in Fatty Acid Methyl Ester Composition in Oil Seeds of Gundelia tournefortii L.

Abstract

This study identifies the fatty acids phytoconstituents present in the Gundelia tournefortii seeds using GC-MS analysis.  The compounds found in Gundelia may be proved to have several pharmacological effects. It is reported to have anti-parasite antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antioxidant, antiseptic and emetic effects and hypolipemic activities blood purifier. Among the fatty acids analyzed, the relative percentage of Linoleic acid methyl ester was high in oil seeds of G.tournefortii (43.98%). The other components showed a higher percentage Oleic acid methyl ester (28.29%), Palmitic acid methyl ester (13.42%) and 8-Octadecenoic acid methyl ester (6.89%). Type of GC-MS analysis is the first step towards understanding the nature of active principles in this medicinal plant and will be helpful for further detailed study, as well as gives a clear picture about the pharmaceutical value of that plant and their diversity and detailed photochemistry it may add new knowledge to the information in the traditional medical systems.