Solvent extraction method for camellia seeds

Using solvent extraction method to extract oil, petroleum ether, ether, and n-hexane are generally selected as extraction solvents. Meng Wei et al. compared the extraction effects of three solvents, namely petroleum ether, n-hexane, and ethyl acetate, on tea seed oil. The results showed that petroleum ether was the optimal extraction solvent, and the optimal extraction process conditions were: solid-liquid ratio of 1:10, extraction temperature of 50 ℃, extraction twice for 3 hours each time, with an extraction rate of over 93%.
The solvent extraction method generally has a high extraction rate, simple operation, and recyclable solvent. However, during the extraction process, unsaturated fatty acids are prone to decomposition, resulting in higher saponification value of the tea oil and the possibility of solvent residue.