Bioscience Evidence 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 250-259 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/be 254 4.2 Other traditional oils: brief comparisons with other oils like sunflower and coconut oils When comparing Camellia oleifera oil to other traditional oils such as sunflower and coconut oils, several differences in nutritional content and health benefits emerge. Sunflower oil is predominantly composed of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid, which is beneficial for heart health but less stable at high temperatures compared to the monounsaturated fats in tea seed oil. Coconut oil, on the other hand, is high in saturated fats, which can raise cholesterol levels and potentially increase the risk of heart disease, although it is also praised for its antimicrobial properties and medium-chain triglycerides that can boost metabolism (Wang et al., 2017b). Camellia oleifera oil stands out due to its balanced fatty acid profile, which includes a significant amount of oleic acid and lower levels of saturated fats compared to coconut oil. It also contains beneficial compounds such as squalene and various phytosterols, which are known for their antioxidant properties and potential to lower cholesterol levels (Wang et al., 2017b). Furthermore, the presence of unique polyphenols in tea seed oil, similar to those found in green tea, adds to its health-promoting properties, making it a versatile and healthful alternative to other traditional oils (Wang et al., 2017a; Teixeira and Sousa, 2021). 5 Consumer Perception and Market Trends 5.1 Market analysis of Camellia oleifera oil: overview of market trends, demand, and consumer preferences Camellia oleifera oil, commonly known as tea seed oil, has been gaining traction in various markets due to its numerous health benefits and versatile applications. The oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids, particularly oleic acid, and contains significant amounts of antioxidants such as Vitamin E and polyphenols, which contribute to its health-promoting properties (Lee and Yen, 2006; Wang et al., 2011; Seyis et al., 2019). The growing awareness of these benefits has led to an increase in demand, particularly in health-conscious consumer segments. The market for Camellia oleifera oil is expanding not only in traditional markets like China and Japan but also in Western countries where consumers are increasingly seeking natural and healthful alternatives to conventional cooking oils (Seyis et al., 2019; Teixeira and Sousa, 2021). The oil's mild flavor and high smoke point make it a preferred choice for cooking, while its applications in cosmetics and skincare products further drive its market growth (Seyis et al., 2019; Zhu et al., 2020). Additionally, the oil's use in industrial applications, such as machinery lubricants and rust prevention, adds to its market versatility (Seyis et al., 2019). 5.2 Barriers to consumption: factors affecting consumer adoption, including awareness and price Despite its growing popularity, several barriers affect the widespread adoption of Camellia oleifera oil. One of the primary challenges is the lack of consumer awareness about the oil and its benefits. Many consumers are more familiar with other oils like olive oil and coconut oil, which have been marketed extensively (Seyis et al., 2019; Teixeira and Sousa, 2021). This lack of awareness can be attributed to limited marketing efforts and the relatively recent introduction of Camellia oleifera oil to non-Asian markets. Price is another significant barrier. The production of Camellia oleifera oil involves labor-intensive processes, and the yield from tea seeds is relatively low compared to other oilseeds, leading to higher costs (Wang et al., 2011; Zeng et al., 2014). This makes the oil more expensive than many of its counterparts, which can deter price-sensitive consumers. Moreover, the availability of the oil can be inconsistent due to the seasonal nature of tea seed harvesting and the limited number of regions where Camellia oleifera is cultivated (Wang et al., 2017a; Shen et al., 2022). This can lead to supply chain issues and further drive up prices, making it less accessible to a broader audience. 6 Case Studies of Camellia oleifera Oil Usage 6.1 Historical use in traditional medicine: examples from east Asian medicinal practices Camellia oleifera oil, has a rich history in traditional East Asian medicine, particularly in countries like China, and Korea. Historically, it has been used for its purported health benefits and healing properties. In Japan, Tsubaki oil was commonly used to treat burns and wounds due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (Teixeira
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