Erucic 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 (C 21 H 41 COOH), but as a glycerol ester (triglyceride).
It is worth noting that the main difference between the compounds that make up Omega-9 from other unsaturated fatty acids is that they are not indispensable. This means that the human body is able to independently synthesize them, if necessary. But it is worth noting that not all representatives of acids that belong to Omega-9 are useful compounds. For example, erucic acid harms the body, being dangerous and toxic to it, since the human enzymatic system is unable to cope with it.
Where is in nature
Earlier, the topic of finding this acid in natural oils was raised, but what plants contain it more? In the greatest quantity, it is found in the following plants: rapeseed, white and black mustard. Acid was also found in grape seeds, but in much smaller quantities than, for example, in mustard.
Percentage by weight in various oils
The highest content is noted in rapeseed oil, which ranges from 56 to 65%, as well as in mustard oil - not more than 50%. The presence of erucic acid in other vegetable fats is not so great, and can range from 1 to 11%.
Rapeseed oil
This oil is one of the most common in the world, compared to others, and occupies 14% of the total production of various oils. But what do they get it from?
Rapeseed belongs to the genus Cruciferous, it is at the same time an annual plant, which 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 humidity. If we talk about the birthplace of rapeseed, then it is generally accepted by experts that the plant originated in the Mediterranean.
The benefits of rapeseed oil
The benefit of this oil is that in its composition it contains a number of amino acids, which, in turn, are indispensable. These include linoleic and linolenic. Their use is necessary for humans, since the body is not able to synthesize them on their own, but at the same time they play a big role for hormonal health. In addition, rapeseed oil contains fat-soluble vitamins such as A and E. They are known for their antioxidant ability, which means they can 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.
It was also discovered a large number of various trace elements, 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, compared, for example, with soybean oil. Due to its diverse composition, rapeseed oil can help in normalizing metabolism, as it normalizes hormones with the help of vitamins. It has an effect on the content of excess cholesterol, lowering it, and also is the prevention of oncological diseases. It is worth noting that rapeseed oil is quite pleasant to taste.
Harmful rapeseed oil
Erucic 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 enzyme system cannot process it, which means that it remains to accumulate in the tissues, which adversely affects the growth of children. And this means that the moment when puberty should begin, will be delayed, which in the future will lead to adverse consequences. Erucic acid harms the heart and circulatory system. It can cause cirrhosis of the liver, as well as have a negative effect on muscles.
The content of erucic acid from 0.3 to 0.6% is not harmful to human health. That is why experts have learned to grow varieties of rapeseed that would contain a minimal amount of this dangerous substance. Therefore, do not be afraid of rapeseed oil, you just need to choose the right one that does not contain erucic acid.
Industrial application
Earlier it was said that the mammalian body is not able to cope with the processing of erucic acid, which means that for it 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 textile, paint and varnish, and is also used for the manufacture of soaps.