Analysis of the seed oil of Peganum harmala L (Zygophyllaceae) from Morocco

In order to facilitate the pharmacological use of the plant, we thus decided to study the oil extracted from the seeds of Peganum harmala. The oil was extracted from the seeds using Sohxlet and the extract was analysed by gaz chromatography (G.C.) and thin layer chromatography (T.L.C.). The G.C, chromatograph (spectrum) revealed that insatured fatty acids are the major constituants of the oil where linoleic acid predomine oleic acid whereas, minor amounts of saturated fatty acids such as palmitic acid and stearic acid were present. Analysis by T.L.C. and H.P.L.C. indicated that Peganum harmala oil is a rich source of the major alkaloids, especially harmaline, harmine, harmalol and harmol.