Essential oil composition of the aerial parts of mentha spicata l.

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Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Essential oil composition of the aerial parts of mentha spicata l.
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Original source:

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Author:

Gitu Kunwar, Chitra Pande and Geeta Tewari


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Essential oil composition of the aerial parts of mentha spicata l.

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20176-8518

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


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Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study investigated the essential oil composition of the aerial parts of Mentha spicata (spearmint) cultivated in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India. This perennial herb is widely recognized for its culinary uses and traditional medicinal applications, including treatment for gastrointestinal disorders and as a breath freshener. The research aimed to analyze the volatile compounds present in the essential oil obtained from the plant using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques.

Major Components of Essential Oil

The analysis revealed that the essential oil of M. spicata is rich in sesquiterpenes, with the major components being trans-muurola-4(14), 5-diene (27.28%), piperitenone oxide (22.22%), and β-caryophyllene (10.48%). These constituents are of particular interest due to their potential therapeutic properties. For instance, piperitenone oxide has been noted for its insect repellent properties, particularly against malaria vectors, and β-caryophyllene is recognized for its anti-inflammatory effects, further supporting the medicinal value of M. spicata.

Comparative Analysis with Previous Studies

The composition of M. spicata oil from Nainital was compared with previous studies that reported different major components. For example, earlier findings in various regions of India indicated a predominance of carvone and limonene, while the current study showed a shift in the profiles of major constituents. This variation highlights the influence of geographical and climatic factors on the essential oil composition, suggesting that local cultivation conditions play a critical role in determining the chemical makeup of M. spicata oil.

Minor Constituents and Their Significance

In addition to the major components, the study identified several minor constituents, including geranyl propanoate (6.55%), sibirene (3.45%), and borneol (1.98%), among others. Although these compounds are present in smaller quantities, they contribute to the overall flavor and aroma of the oil, enhancing its applications in food and fragrance industries. Moreover, some of these minor constituents may possess unique biological activities, indicating potential areas for exploration in phytochemistry and natural product research.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insight into the essential oil composition of Mentha spicata cultivated in Nainital, revealing a distinct profile characterized predominantly by sesquiterpenes. The identification of key compounds with recognized therapeutic properties suggests that the oil could serve as a natural alternative to synthetic pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the findings underscore the importance of geographical factors in influencing essential oil composition, encouraging further research into local varieties of Mentha spicata for commercial and medicinal use. The potential applications of this essential oil warrant further exploration to fully realize its benefits.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the essential oil yield from Mentha spicata?

The essential oil yield from Mentha spicata was found to be 0.06% (w/w) after hydrodistillation of fresh aerial parts.

Which major compounds were identified in Mentha spicata essential oil?

The essential oil contained major compounds such as trans-muurola-4(14),5-diene (27.28%), piperitenone oxide (22.22%), and β-caryophyllene (10.48%).

How was the essential oil of Mentha spicata extracted?

The essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus for 3 hours.

What methods were used to analyze essential oil components?

The essential oil components were analyzed using Gas Chromatography (GC) and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS).

What are the potential uses of compounds in Mentha spicata?

Compounds like piperitenone oxide and β-caryophyllene may have applications as alternatives to synthetic drugs due to their biological properties.

What significance does Mentha spicata hold in traditional practices?

Mentha spicata is commonly used to treat gastrointestinal disorders, nausea, and as a freshener, reflecting its traditional medicinal and culinary significance.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Essential oil composition of the aerial parts of mentha spicata l.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) India:
India is the country where the study of the essential oil composition of Mentha spicata was conducted. This geographical context is significant because the climate and soil conditions in Uttarakhand, India, are conducive to the growth of various herbal plants, including spearmint, which is essential for understanding its unique chemical profile.

2) Campu:
The term 'Campu' refers to D. S. B. Campus, a part of Kumaun University in Nainital, India, where the research was conducted. This academic institution provided the framework and resources necessary for the botanical and chemical analysis of Mentha spicata, highlighting the role of educational institutions in scientific research.

3) Chauhan:
Chauhan refers to a researcher who has conducted earlier studies on Mentha spicata. Citing Chauhan's work in the current research provides context and credibility, as it allows for the comparison of essential oil compositions across different studies, thus contributing to the broader understanding of this plant's chemical properties.

4) Table:
The Table in the research presents the essential oil composition of Mentha spicata, detailing the identification and percentage of various compounds. Tables are crucial for summarizing complex data, making it easier for readers to grasp the findings and draw comparisons with previous studies and other essential oils.

5) Rich (Rch):
The term 'rich' describes the abundance of specific compounds found in the essential oil of Mentha spicata, such as sesquiterpenes. This richness implies that the oil possesses distinct aromatic and therapeutic properties, making it valuable for both culinary and medicinal uses, thereby enhancing its commercial relevance.

6) Discussion:
The Discussion section of the research interprets the results obtained, comparing them with previous studies and exploring their implications. This analytical section is vital for providing insights into the relevance of the findings in the context of existing literature and potential applications in pharmaceuticals and food industries.

7) Vomiting:
Vomiting is mentioned as one of the gastrointestinal disorders that Mentha spicata is traditionally used to treat. Understanding the medicinal properties of the plant in relation to symptoms like vomiting highlights its relevance in herbal medicine and promotes further research into natural remedies for such conditions.

8) Relative:
The term 'relative' is used to describe the percentage of individual components in the essential oil, calculated based on peak area in gas chromatography. This quantitative analysis is critical for establishing the dominant compounds and understanding their potential health benefits, as well as their culinary applications.

9) Camphor:
Camphor is a compound identified in the essential oil analysis of Mentha spicata. Although its concentrations were low, its presence contributes to the overall profile of the oil and indicates potential medicinal properties, making it worthwhile to investigate further in the context of herbal applications.

10) Disease:
The term 'disease' refers to various health issues that Mentha spicata has been used to address in traditional medicine. The connection between the plant and disease management underscores its significance in folk remedies and suggests potential avenues for developing herbal treatments based on its bioactive components.

11) Species:
Species refers to Mentha spicata, the specific plant under investigation. Understanding its classification within the genus Mentha is essential for biological studies and facilitates comparisons with other species within the same family, offering insights into their unique chemical compositions and therapeutic potentials.

12) Family:
Family refers to Lamiaceae, the botanical family to which Mentha spicata belongs. The classification within this family helps contextualize the study, as related species often share similar chemical profiles and therapeutic uses, enhancing the understanding of the medicinal and nutritional value of the Lamiaceae family.

13) Nausea:
Nausea, like vomiting, is another gastrointestinal symptom that Mentha spicata is known to alleviate. This highlights the therapeutic potential of the plant in natural medicine, warranting further exploration of its phytochemical properties and their roles in combating digestive disturbances for holistic health improvement.

14) Glass:
Glass refers to the dark glass bottle used for storing the essential oil to protect it from light degradation. This consideration in the study design shows a focus on preserving the integrity of the volatile compounds, emphasizing the meticulous approach needed to ensure accurate analysis and results.

15) Pandu (Pamdu, Pamde):
Pande is one of the authors involved in the research study. The inclusion of multiple authors suggests collaboration, which is essential in scientific research for pooling knowledge, expertise, and resources, ultimately contributing to a more comprehensive and robust investigation of the essential oil's composition.

16) Genu:
Genu refers to the genus Mentha, which includes various species of mint. Understanding this classification is important for taxonomical studies and helps to frame the research within larger studies of aromatic plants and their essential oils, which are valued in culinary and therapeutic applications.

17) Drug:
The term 'drug' denotes potential pharmaceutical applications of the compounds found in Mentha spicata. As certain components exhibit biological activities, this research opens possibilities for developing natural drug alternatives, thus contributing to ongoing efforts to find safer and more effective treatments in medicine.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Essential oil composition of the aerial parts of mentha spicata l.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Chemical composition, Botanical identification, Aqueous extract, Gas chromatography, Hydrodistillation method, Respiratory disorder, Aerial part, Major Component, Minor component.

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