Physicochemical Properties, Antioxidant Activity, and GC-MS Profiling of Ethanol Extract from Azanza garckeana Seed Oil

Background and Objective: Despite its relatively low oil yield, Azanza garckeana seed oil exhibits unique physicochemical properties, particularly high viscosity and refractive index, that suggest potential industrial and cosmetic applications. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant efficacy, and bioactive composition of A. garckeana seed oil ethanol extract, with a focus on its potential industrial, nutraceutical, and cosmetic uses. Materials and Methods: Seeds of A. garckeana were collected, processed, and subjected to ethanol extraction. The oil’s physicochemical parameters, including acid value, peroxide value, viscosity, and refractive index, were assessed using standard analytical methods. Antioxidant activity was measured through DPPH radical scavenging assays, while compound identification was performed via Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Descriptive statistics and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were used to interpret the data with a 0.05 significance level. Results: The oil showed high viscosity (98.62 mm²/s) and refractive index (1.48), indicating suitability for industrial applications. However, the free fatty acid content (6.73%) and peroxide value (21.4 meq/kg) exceeded acceptable limits for edible oils. GC-MS analysis revealed the dominance of linoleic acid ester and the presence of γ-sitosterol, γ-tocopherol, and various unsaturated fatty acids and phenolics. The extract showed moderate antioxidant activity (54.3% at 100 μg/mL), lower than ascorbic acid but sufficient for potential preservative and skincare uses. Conclusion: While Azanza garckeana seed oil presents challenges in oxidative stability and yield, its unique chemical composition and bioactive content offer promise for applications in cosmetics, functional foods, and lubricants. Refinement and stabilization processes, alongside further bioefficacy studies, are needed to unlock its full commercial potential.