Analysis of the main quality and bioactive components of the seed oil of Camellia vietnamensis from the different producing regions

This study investigates the quality and bioactive components of Camellia vietnamensis seed oil sourced from five regions in Hainan Province, China (HC, ZJ, WZS, ML, and XS). Significant geographical variations were observed in the physical and chemical properties. The fatty acid profiles were generally similar across the samples. However, the composition of specific acids differed: HC had higher levels of myristic and stearic acids, while XS contained more oleic and linoleic acids. The most potent antioxidant activity was observed in WZS for DPPH· scavenging, HC for ABTS+ · radical neutralization, and XS for ferric ion-reducing antioxidant power (FARP). Antibacterial activity was not detected against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, or Bacillus subtilis. Cytotoxicity tests revealed that oils from XS, HC, and ML were cytotoxic to HeLa cells, with XS showing the most potent effect. A total of 97 volatile compounds were identified, with antioxidants such as benzaldehyde and maltol commonly found in XS, HC, and WZS oils. Terpenoids with cytotoxic properties were more prevalent in XS, HC, and ML oils. In addition, all seed oils met the "superior oil" standards (GB/T 11765-2018), with XS oil demonstrating the most significant nutritional and therapeutic potential, suggesting promising applications in healthcare and industry. The statistical evaluation of the results has been made using ANOVA and the number of determinations. PCA was used for data analysis of volatile compounds, fatty acid composition and antioxidant activity