Abstract
Extraction of the crushed seed kernels of Momordica charantia L. with ethyl ether gives a high yield (44.64%) of oil. The ultraviolet absorption spectrum of the oil suggests that about 57.8% of it is a conjugated trienoic acid. When refluxed with alcoholic potassium hydroxide, the oil gives an acid fraction which readily yields a crystalline acid, C18H30O2, mp 48.049.0°C, identified as α-elaeostearic acid.
