Research progress in extraction technology of α-Linolenic acid from Prickly ash seed oil

α-Linolenic acid (ALA) is the only necessary fatty acid of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid. ALA showed various biological functions, such as improving memory, the protection of eyesight, lowering the cholesterol and serum lipids, protecting from atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases, enhancing immunity, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, anti-aging and helping to lose weight. At present, ALA have been widely applied to pharmaceutical, cosmeti and food industries. The latest research progress in extraction technology of ALA from Prickly ash seed oil home and abroad were reviewed in this paper. At the same time, their principles, advantages and the status quo were also summarized. The extraction technology prospect of ALA was proposed based on the above content. The result of this paper provided some theoretical basis for the further study and exploitation of Prickly ash seed.