Chemical Composition, Bio-Diesel Potential and Uses of <i>Jatropha curcas</i> L. (Euphorbiaceae)

Abstract

This review paper focuses some basic aspect of the taxonomic, biology, cultivation, chemical composition, bio-diesel potential, medicinal values and uses of Jatropha curcas Linn. The genus Jatropha is distributed throughout the tropics and sub-tropics growning in marginal lands and is a potential biodiesel crop worldwide. Due to its adaptability to marginal soils and environments the cultivation of Jatropha curcas is frequently mentioned as the best option for producing biodiesel. The seed oil can be used as a feed stock for biodiesel. Alternatively Jatropha oil is used in soap, glue or dye industry. The seed cake is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus and can be used as manure. Ash from the roots and branches of Jatropha curcas L. is used as cooking salt, and as lye in dyeing. The dark blue dye extracted from the bark of Jatropha is a useful dye. The plant parts and its oil along with its latex used for different reasons such as pesticides, anti-inflammatory activities, wound healing, lighting (lamp), bio-gas production, fertilizer and other purposes. The objective of this review paper focuses some basic aspect of the taxonomic, biology, cultivation, chemical composition, bio-diesel potential, medicinal values and uses of Jatropha curcas Linn.

Review of Biomass Resources and Conversion Technologies for Alternative Jet Fuel Production in Hawai’i and Tropical Regions

“…The seed husks (removed before oil extraction) can be used for direct combustion and as feedstock for gasification . The residue seed cake that remains after oil extraction from seeds and kernels contains high-quality proteins (unsuitable as a fodder), is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, and can be used as manure (fertilizer) to enhance soil organic carbon. , The glycerol (byproduct from the transesterification of oil into biodiesel) can be used to produce heat by combustion, and in the cosmetic industry, soaps and other products . The analysis of the air-dried seed shows the following composition: moisture 6.2%, protein 18%, fat 38%, carbohydrates 17%, fiber 15.5%, and ash 5.3%.…”

Jatropha Green Petroleum Tree (Article Review)

“…Additionally, the plant Jatropha curcas L. is under investigation for potential use as a carbon sequestration tool in dry areas [9]. Jatropha oil is rich in NPK and can be used as organic fertilizers [10]. Farmers in arid and semiarid regions began growing jatropha because it had a good adaptation to a wide range of agro-climatic conditions and had the potential to be a lucrative new commercial crop for poor soils [11], and Jatropha's physiological properties, which are linked to its economic possibilities and its standing as an alternative biofuel plant for dry and semi-arid environments [12].…”

Jatropha curcas L.: A sustainable resource for biofuel feedstock with medicinal and commercial attributes

“…Originally native to South America, Jatropha curcas was introduced to Thailand by the Portuguese around 200 years ago for soap production using its oil. These trees typically grow to heights of 3 to 6 meters, featuring heart-shaped green leaves, latex, and smooth grey bark (Gudeta et al, 2016). Jatropha curcas is a large shrub or small tree that produces edible oil seeds.…”