Characterization and utilization of Spanish Broom (Spartium junceum L.) seed oil

Physico-chemical characteristics and fatty acid composition of Spanish Broom seed oil were determined. The percentage yield of the oil was calculated as 4–5%. The saponification value, iodine value, acid value and free fatty acid were determined to assess the quality of the oil. The physico-chemical characterization showed that Spanish Broom seed oil is an unsaturated semi-drying oil, with high saponification and acidic values. The fatty acid composition of Spanish Broom seed oil was determined by Gas Chromatography. The seed oil of Spanish Broom contained linoleic and palmitic acids, the most abundant unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, respectively. It is concluded that Spanish Broom seed oil might be used for making soap, hair shampoo and alkyd resin.