Okra oil

Bast fiber from the stem of the plant has industrial uses such as the reinforcement of polymer composites. The mucilage produced by the okra plant can be used for the removal of turbidity from wastewater by virtue of its flocculant properties. Having composition similar to a thick polysaccharide film, okra mucilage is under development as a biodegradable food packaging, as of 2018. A 2009 study found okra oil suitable for use as a biofuel.

Cross-section of an okra pod

The depletion of world petroleum reserves due to rapidly growing energy demands coupled with environmental concerns has prompted the efforts to explore some alternative sources of petroleum-based fuels. In this context, biodiesel has gained considerable ground in the public world-over. Currently, biodiesel is mainly prepared from conventionally grown edible oils such as sunflower, soybean and palm oils thus leading to alleviate food versus fuel issue.

The seeds of mature okra pods, sometimes used for poultry feed are also consumed after roasting and as a coffee substitute. These are considered to be a stomachic stimulant, antispasmodic, and nervine. The okra seeds have been used on a small scale for oil production.

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