Ricinoleic acid

Ricinoleic acid is a fatty acid that is found in large quantities in castor oil, a vegetable oil obtained from the seeds of the Ricinus communis plant. It is a pale yellow liquid that is slightly viscous and has a distinct, unpleasant odor. Ricinoleic acid is unique among fatty acids due to its high degree of unsaturation and the presence of a hydroxyl group on the 12th carbon atom.

Chemical Structure

Ricinoleic acid is an 18-carbon fatty acid with the chemical formula C18H34O3. It has a double bond between the 9th and 10th carbon atoms, making it an omega-9 fatty acid. The hydroxyl group on the 12th carbon atom is what distinguishes ricinoleic acid from other fatty acids and gives it its unique properties.

Properties and Uses

Ricinoleic acid has several properties that make it useful in various industries. It is a surfactant, which means it can reduce the surface tension of liquids and make them more effective at cleaning or emulsifying. This property makes ricinoleic acid useful in the production of soaps and detergents.

In addition, ricinoleic acid has several medicinal properties. It is an effective laxative, and it also has analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties make it useful in the treatment of various conditions, including constipation, arthritis, and skin conditions.

Safety

While ricinoleic acid itself is generally safe, it is important to note that it is a component of castor oil, which also contains the highly toxic compound ricin. Therefore, care should be taken when handling castor oil or products containing it.

See Also

• Castor oil
• Ricin
• Fatty acid
• Omega-9 fatty acid

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