Qualitative analysis of volatile organic compounds on Aegle marmelos L. by GC-O-MS automation system

The purpose of the current study was to assess the chemical composition of Aegle marmelos L. (ฺBael fruit) extracted from naturally insect-infested small to medium-sized perennials which explore its potential therapeutic applications. The study of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) composition in the Bael fruit was performed by gas chromatography-olfactometry-mass spectrometry (GC-O-MS) automation system.

The Bael fruit was grinded, boiled in 5mL deionized water, filtered and the VOCs major components analyzed by using head-space solid-phase micro-extraction (HS-SPME-GC-O-MS) automation. The DVB/CAR/PDMS SPME fiber was then exposed inside each vial to extract volatile compounds in headspace of the sample with the extraction time of 30 min at 50 °C temperature. The chromatogram results reveal the detailed peak identification, compound name, molecular weight, list of compounds the retention time and maximum peak area.

The qualitative analysis of GC-O-MS technique revealed the presence of 3 main different components sesquiterpene and terpenes group with chromatogram peak areas of major identified compounds were Gamma-Eudesmol , Cis-Thujopsene, Benzaldehyde which possess anti-inflammatory properties. According to literature, Gamma-Eudesmol can inhibit the enzymes COX and LOX, while Cis-Thujopsene is effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and some viruses. Benzaldehyde is described to inhibit inflammatory cytokines and the enzyme COX-2. Additionally, all three substances have anticancer effects by stimulating the apoptosis process in cancer cells.

In this study, Bael fruit, which is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties, was studied by GC-O-MS analysis. This allowed to identify the major compounds found in the fruit which may corroborate its biological activity.