Mahogany seeds are scientifically known as Swietenia macrophylla seeds. The fruit of the mahogany seeds is commonly known as “Sky fruit”. Mahogany seeds are used traditionally in Southeast Asia countries to help control blood sugar and high blood pressure. However, there are no clinical studies in humans supporting its effectiveness or safety.¹

The mahogany seed oil is believed to have antiseptic properties that help to promote healthy skin and prevent infections. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in mahogany seeds can contribute to healthy skin. Neutralising free radicals and reducing inflammation may promote youthful-looking skin, prevent premature ageing, and alleviate certain skin conditions.²

The mahogany seed oil is believed to have antiseptic properties that help to promote healthy skin and prevent infections. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in mahogany seeds can contribute to healthy skin. Neutralising free radicals and reducing inflammation may promote youthful-looking skin, prevent premature ageing, and alleviate certain skin conditions.²

The oil obtained from the seed sample was macerated with petroleum ether for two weeks, shaking from time to time, then filtered, and the solvent evaporated to obtain seed oil. The constituting fatty acids in the oil were obtained as their methyl esters by transesterification of the glycerides with MeOH/K2CO3 and separation on a silica gel column.¹

Composition of mahogany seed oil

Key components and their properties

Phytochemical compounds of S. mahogani consist of the phenolic (flavonoids (swietemacrophyllanin, catechin and epichatechin) and tannins), triterpenoids, tetrano triterpenoid (limonoid: mahonin, secomahoganin, swietmanins, swiemahogins, swietenine and swietenolide), saponins and alkaloids which are known as antidiabetic bioactive principles.

Fatty acids composition of mahogany seed oil

Myristoleic acid (34.56%), palmitic acid (20.561%), oleic acid (17.132%), and erucic acid (17.132%) were the primary fatty acids in the oil. Additionally, it contains the following minor fatty acids: Vaccenic acid 1.028, isooleic acid 1.028, arachidic acid 1.838, stearic acid 1.592, capric acid 0.244, undecyclic acid 0.246, myristic acid 1.592, stearic acid 1.592, elaidic acid 1.028, and 13-octadecenoic acid 1.028 %.³

Antioxidants

Mahogany seed oil (extracted from the seeds of the mahogany tree, Swietenia macrophylla or other species within the Swietenia genus) may not be widely available or may vary depending on the extraction and analysis method. However, mahogany seeds and their oil are believed to contain several bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties.

The antioxidant properties in plant seeds like mahogany generally come from a variety of compounds, including:

Phenolic compounds: These are a significant group of compounds acting as antioxidants. They can neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Phenolics are common in many seeds and plant-derived oils

1. Flavonoids: A type of phenolic, flavonoids are known for their antioxidant properties. They are found in a wide range of plants and contribute to reducing oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals
2. Tannins: Tannins have antioxidant properties and are found in various plant materials, including seeds. They can bind and precipitate proteins and have a range of other biological activities
3. Tocopherols (Vitamin E): Vitamin E is a well-known antioxidant, and its presence in seed oils can significantly contribute to their ability to combat oxidative stress. Tocopherols protect the lipids within the body and the oil itself from oxidation
4. Saponins and triterpenes: These are known for their medicinal properties and exhibit antioxidant activities. They can contribute to the health benefits of mahogany seed oil
5. Sterols: Plant sterols have been identified for their cholesterol-lowering effects, but they also possess antioxidant properties that can contribute to the overall anti-oxidative capacity of seed oils⁴

Extraction process

Solvent extraction

Mahogany seed oil isolation and characterisation have been studied.

Three times a day, mahogany seed oil was extracted by macerating the seeds in n-hexane solvent. To obtain mahogany seed oil, the n-hexane extract evaporated until all the solvents were gone. The components were then identified using GC-MS, IR, and UV spectrometers. The outcome indicated that the predominant ingredient in mahogany seed oil was linoleic acid ester, which accounted for 81.56%.⁵

Skin benefits of mahogany seed oil

Mahogany seed oil has a slightly creamy, velvety feel. When the oil comes into close touch with the skin, it melts instantly. It has a fantastic shelf life and is a very flexible lipid. The skin is nourished, softened, and protected by mahogany seed oil. It works well as an emollient and is perfect for aged, troubled, dry, itchy, and parched skin types. The oil is an excellent moisturiser and conditioner in hair care applications.⁶

Scientists discovered that the seed's anti-inflammatory chemicals, such as swietenine, might downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines, upregulate antioxidant proteins, and limit nitric oxide synthesis.⁷

Healing and regenerative effects

The results indicate that human skin fibroblasts could be stimulated to develop by the Swietenia mahagoni seed extract at 0.01 mg/mL. All of the extracts resulted in a noticeably higher percentage of wound closure than the control, according to the scratch test. The fibroblast-stimulating activity of Swietenia mahagoni seed extract may be responsible for its wound-healing properties, as it may facilitate dermal repair. For this reason, it could be a functional herbal ingredient to add to products meant to aid in the healing of wounds.⁸

Antimicrobial effects

The study evaluated the antimicrobial activities of S. mahogany crude methanolic seed extract. Results showed inhibitory effects on the growth of Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus faecalis and Proteus mirabilis.⁹

Summary

Mahogany seed oil is a promising natural ingredient for skincare owing to its rich antioxidant content and various bioactive compounds that offer protective, moisturising, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and regenerative benefits for the skin. It has the potential to be incorporated into skincare formulations aimed at anti-ageing, moisturising, and treating or preventing skin conditions. However, while its benefits are promising, it's essential to conduct further research to fully understand its effects and ensure its safety and efficacy for topical use.