How to Extract Moringa Oil Using Hand Operated Expeller
Moringa is often considered to be a miracle plant. The comparison is rather apt considering that various parts of this plant can be used in a variety of ways. The leaves and seeds of the moringa plant are highly nutritious. The leaves can be used to make moringa tea which is a very refreshing beverage. The seeds can be used to extract oil which has a number of uses in cosmetics and food.
The oil produced by Moringa Seeds is rich in antioxidants and other nutrients such as calcium and vitamins. This oil can be used for cooking food. It can also be applied directly to the skin to receive its beneficial properties. As cosmetics, moringa oil can be very useful in anti-aging and acne treatments.
Producing Moringa Oil At Home
It is possible to prepare oil from the seeds of the moringa plant at home. Apart from the seeds, you will need a hand operated expeller for extracting the oil. Homemade moringa oil may contain a few impurities if it is not refined properly. Nonetheless, it will be absolutely natural and free from all additives and preservatives often added to the oil.
Setting up the Hand Operated Expeller
Before you can start extracting oil, you need to set the expeller properly. A designated workspace is recommended as most hand operated expellers need to be attached to a base firmly before they can be used. If the machine does not remain stationary while in use, you will end up producing less oil.
Peeling the Moringa Seeds
Moringa seeds have an outer coating which must be removed before the oil can be extracted. Without removing the coating, you will have a harder time trying to expel the oil and the volume of oil produced will be low.
Prepare the Containers
A hand operated expeller will contain two outlets and one inlet. The inlet is usually funnel shaped to make it easier for the seeds to enter the processor. The two outlets are meant for the oil and the seedcake. You need to place containers under these outlets to collect the products formed.
Add Peeled Seeds
After the seeds have been peeled, they can be put inside the funnel meant for the purpose.
Operating
The hand operated expeller will have a crank attached to the side. Crank it to start processing the seeds. The seeds in the funnel should automatically start to fall inside the machine. At the same time, the oil should slowly drip out of the appropriate outlet with the seedcake exiting from the other outlet.
Using the Produce
The oil extracted from the expeller machine will be dirty and contain a lot of sediments and impurities. The oil should be left to settle and undisturbed. After a day, the sediment and other impurities will separate themselves from the oil. Remove the oil and put it in a container for storage. The seedcake can also be used in different ways.
Moringa Oil tends to have a long shelf life. However, it is important to note that the quantity of oil produced will be much lower compared to the quantity of seeds used. It can be up to four times lower.