Eruic acid is a representative of monobasic carboxylic acids. Also, this compound can be attributed to unsaturated fatty acids, which are called Omega-9. It is worth noting that in some vegetable oils, the acid is not contained in its original form (C21H41COOH), but as an ester of glycerol (triglyceride).
It is worth noting that the main difference between the compounds included in Omega-9 and other unsaturated fatty acids is that they are not essential. This means that the human body is able to synthesize them on its own, if necessary. But it is worth noting that not all representatives of acids that are classified as Omega-9 are useful compounds. For example, erucic acid harms the body, being dangerous and toxic to it, since the human enzymatic system is not able to cope with it.
Where is in nature
Earlier, the topic of finding this acid in natural oils was touched upon, but which plants contain more of it? It is found in the greatest quantity in the following plants: rapeseed, white andblack mustard. Also, the acid was found in grape seeds, but in much smaller quantities than, for example, in mustard.
Percentage by weight of various oils
The highest content is noted in rapeseed oil, which ranges from 56 to 65%, as well as in mustard oil - no more than 50%. The presence of erucic acid in other vegetable fats is not as high, and can range from 1 to 11%.
Rapeseed oil
This oil is one of the most widespread in the world, compared to others, and occupies 14% of the total production of various oils. But where does it come from?
Rapeseed belongs to the genus Cruciferous, it is at the same time an annual plant that has been known since ancient times. The cultivation of this culture began more than 5 thousand years ago. The plant is frost-resistant, feels great in a temperate climate, but it requires sufficient moisture. If we talk about the birthplace of rapeseed, then experts believe that the plant originated in the Mediterranean.
Benefits of rapeseed oil
The benefit of this oil is that it contains a number of amino acids in its composition, which, in turn, are indispensable. These include linoleic and linolenic. Their use is necessary for a person, since the body is not able to synthesize them on its own, but at the same time they play a big role in hormonal he alth. In addition, rapeseed oil containsfat-soluble vitamins such as A and E. They are known for their antioxidant ability, which means they are able to fight free radicals that lead to aging of the skin, organs and cells of the human body. Rapeseed oil contains B vitamins, which have a positive effect on the cardiovascular and nervous system.
A large number of various trace elements were also found, of which magnesium, calcium, zinc and others can be noted. But the main advantage of rapeseed oil is that these trace elements are absorbed from it by the body much better than, for example, soybean oil. Due to its diverse composition, rapeseed oil can help normalize metabolism, as it normalizes hormonal levels with the help of vitamins. It has an effect on the content of excess cholesterol, lowering it, and is also a prevention of the onset of cancer. It is worth noting that rapeseed oil is quite pleasant in taste.
Harm of rapeseed oil
Eruic acid is a dangerous substance for mammals, and therefore for humans too, but its content in rapeseed oil is up to 50%. Why is this compound so dangerous?
One of the specific properties of erucic acid is that the human enzymatic system cannot process it, which means that it remains to accumulate in tissues, which adversely affects the growth of children. And this means that the moment when puberty should begin will be delayed, which in the futurelead to adverse consequences. Erucic acid damages the heart and circulatory system. Can cause cirrhosis of the liver, as well as have a negative effect on the muscles.
The content of erucic acid from 0.3 to 0.6% is not dangerous for human he alth. That is why experts have learned to grow rapeseed varieties that would contain the minimum amount of this dangerous substance. Therefore, do not be afraid of rapeseed oil, you just need to choose the right one, which would not contain erucic acid.
Industrial applications
Earlier it was said that the body of mammals is not able to cope with the processing of erucic acid, which means that for him it is a danger and harm. But this compound has found application in industry. For example, rapeseed oil is used in various fields such as textiles, paint and varnish, and is also used to make soap.
