Extraction, characterization and evaluation of candlenut as an alternative source of hair oil.

Abstract

Our bodies are exposed to harmful substances, both intentionally and unintentionally, which harm a variety of organs. One of the organs that suffers damage is the hair. Hair loss is caused by hair damage, which weakens the hair and causes it to fall out. To repair this damage, hair must be nourished again, which can be accomplished by increasing blood circulation to the scalp and massaging the scalp with hair oils that provide external nutrients (Barve, 2016). Various oils are used to improve the condition of one's hair. These oils are used to treat hair issues such as dandruff, hair loss, and hair dryness. When used on a regular basis, hair oil prevents breakage and split ends, adds luster and shine to the hair, and moisturizes the scalp. They serve as a conduit for vital nutrients to reach the hair's root for healthy growth. The majority of these hair oils, however, are prohibitively expensive for the average Ugandan. This study was carried out to look into cheaper alternatives oils, such as those derived from wild plants like candlenuts, so that more Ugandans could afford to condition their hair. The candlenut sample and hexane in the desired ratio were combined in a conical flask. The extraction mixture was homogenized with a homogenizer to aid in mixing. After that, the extraction mixture was allowed to stand at room temperature for about 45 minutes. The extraction mixture was then filtered into a clean conical flask using filter paper. The purpose of this procedure was to separate the liquid extract from the solid residue. The solvent was then removed from the liquid extract using a rotary evaporator. The extracted oil was placed in a desiccators to remove any moisture before being weighed until a consistent weight was achieved. Physiochemical characteristics of oil derived from candlenut were determined using a variety of established procedures. The oil content of the nut was discovered to be 43%. The oil was yellowish in hue and liquid at room temperature, with a specific gravity of 0.842±0.02 g/ml. The following physic-chemical parameters were determined: acid value (3.6888±0.08 mgKOH/g), ester value (31.260.03 mgKOH/g), saponification value (133.645±0.07 mgKOH/g), and iodine value (252.297±0.07). The findings of this study indicated that candlenut oil could be used as a hair oil alternative.