Petroselinic Acid, with the CAS number 593-39-5 and molecular formula C₁₈H₃₄O₂, is a naturally occurring monounsaturated fatty acid classified as a positional isomer of oleic acid. Its defining structural feature is a double bond located at the 6,7-position, which distinguishes it from oleic acid (with a double bond at 9,10-position) and endows it with unique physical and biological properties.
This uncommon fatty acid is primarily isolated from the seed oils of plants belonging to the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family, with coriander (Coriandrum sativum) fruits being one of the most abundant sources—its content in coriander seed oil ranges from 31% to 75%. It is also a major fatty acid component in seed oils of other Apiaceae plants, such as fennel and aniseed; for instance, it constitutes up to 46.60% of Tunisian aniseed oil and 38.40% of Egyptian aniseed oil. Additionally, trace amounts have been identified in the Araliaceae plant family.
Commercially, Petroselinic Acid is typically extracted from plant seeds via methods like twin-screw extrusion, followed by purification to meet application-specific standards (e.g., ≥98.0% purity for 科研 use). In its pure form, it appears as a colorless to light yellow liquid with a density of 0.899 g/cm³ and a melting point of 30°C—significantly higher than oleic acid’s 14°C, a difference attributed to its distinct double bond position. As an endogenous human metabolite, it also exhibits oral bioactivity, expanding its potential for dietary and pharmaceutical applications.
Petroselinic Acid