Valorization of Underutilized Velvet Bean (Mucuna pruriens var. utilis and Mucuna cochinchinensis) Seeds: Biochemical Composition, Physicochemical Properties and GC–MS Profiling of Extracted Oils

Abstract

Underutilized legumes represent promising renewable resources for the discovery of plant-derived biomolecules with potential nutritional and industrial value. This study investigated the biochemical composition and physicochemical characteristics of oils extracted from two velvet bean species, Mucuna pruriens var. utilis and Mucuna cochinchinensis. Proximate and mineral analyses were conducted on the seeds, while the extracted oils were evaluated using physicochemical characterization and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) profiling. The seeds contained appreciable levels of protein (26.15–27.49%) and carbohydrates (49.43–51.92%), together with essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Oils extracted from the seeds exhibited high lipid purity (>96%) and moderate extraction yields (5.75–6.10%). Physicochemical analysis revealed differences between the two oils, with iodine values ranging from 15.25 to 22.17 g/100 g and saponification values from 48.92 to 61.32 mg KOH/g, indicating variations in fatty acid composition and degree of unsaturation. Peroxide values remained low, suggesting limited oxidative degradation. Principal component analysis further highlighted physicochemical parameters responsible for the differentiation of the oils. GC–MS profiling identified several lipid-derived compounds, including linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, and their methyl esters, reflecting the presence of both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids typical of plant oils. These findings provide new biochemical insights into oils derived from two underutilized Mucuna species and support their potential as alternative plant-derived lipid resources for biochemical and industrial applications.