Determination some characteristics and fatty acid composition of pelemir (Cephalaria syriaca L.) seeds obtained from different regions in Turkey

In this study, crude oil yield, fatty acid composition, volatile compounds, antioxidant activity and some characteristics of Cephalaria syriaca L. seeds collected from different locations in Turkey were studied. The antioxidant capacities were determined by DDPH (inhibition) and ABTS tests and the results were between 18.8-67.3% and 0.0-41.8 mmol Trolox eq/g DM, respectively. The total phenolic content of the seeds were determined to be 4339-11907 mg GAE/kg. α-tocopherol content were found in the range of 54-467 mg/kg. Oil yields of the seeds were found to be 11.2-24.0%. In fatty acid profiles; oleic, linoleic, myristic and palmitic acids were determined as the predominant fatty acids. A total of 30 different volatile compounds were identified in the samples, dominated by alcohols and aldehydes. These consist of 10 aldehydes, 13 alcohols, 2 monoterpenes, 2 ketones, 1 hydrocarbon and 1 ester. The results of this study showed that Cephalaria syriaca L.seed can be considered as an alternative raw material in edible oil production, and can be used as natural antioxidant and food additive.