Chaulmoogra Oil

• Chaulmoogra Oil aids in treating skin ailments like leprosy, eczema, and psoriasis naturally.
• Chaulmoogra Oil is valued for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.

General Information

• Synonyms: Hydnocarpus Oil.
• Biological Source:
  • Derived from seeds of Hydnocarpus wightiana and Hydnocarpus Karzai.
• Family: Flacourtiaceae.
• Geographical Source:
  • Native to India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand.

Macroscopical Characters of Chaulmoogra Oil

• Color: Pale yellow to brown.
• Odor: Mild, characteristic.
• Taste: Bitter, unpleasant.
• Consistency: Thick, oily liquid.

Chemical Constituents of Chaulmoogra Oil

• Fixed Oils:
  • Hydnocarpic Acid – Major active component.
  • Chaulmugric Acid, Gorlic Acid – Unique cyclic fatty acids.
• Other Compounds: Tocopherols (antioxidants).

Mechanism of Action

• Antibacterial & Antifungal: Inhibits growth of Mycobacterium leprae (leprosy bacteria).
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces skin inflammation and irritation.

Preparation

1. Seed Collection & Drying: Seeds are collected from ripe fruits.
2. Oil Extraction: Cold pressing or solvent extraction.
3. Purification: Filtration and degumming.

Evaluation

• Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in ether.
• Identification Tests:
  • Sulfuric Acid Test – Turns brown due to unsaturated fatty acids.

Preservation & Storage

• Stored in airtight amber-colored bottles to prevent oxidation.

Therapeutic Uses

• Used in the treatment of leprosy and tuberculosis.
• Topical application for skin infections (eczema, psoriasis).

Commercial Utility

• Used in medicated soaps and ointments

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