Essential oils from Melia azedarach L. (Meliaceae) leaves: chemical variability upon environmental factors

AbstractThe chemical composition of the essential oils extracted from the leaves ofMelia azedarach L. collected monthly from July 2019 to June 2020 was examined via gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography –mass spectrometry (GC–MS) techniques. Analysis of the essential oils identified about 17 compounds representing more than 85% of the oil. Oil yields were higher in the months of June and August, and the primary compounds identified were β-caryophyllene (3.50–63.41%), benzaldehyde (3.50–55. 98%), and azulene (1.27–19.05%). A correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between yields and climatic conditions, and between constituent concentration and temperature and precipitation values during the study period. As per our findings, although not significant, a posit ive correlation was determined between yield and climatic parameters. However, the oil components were categorized into four groups based on their correlation with temperature and precipitation indices. Among the major components of the essential oils, only azulene and β-caryophyllene exhibited a n egative correlation with both precipitation and temperature. The results show substantial differences in the chemical composition ofM. azedarach essential oils and provide further insight into the phytochemical constituents that are sensitive to climate fluctuations. Furthermore, it provides an indication of the optimal time that the plant produces the important mono- and sesquiterp...
Source: Journal of Natural Medicines - Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Source Type: research