On the Volatile Components of Heterotropa takaoi and Related Species (Aristolochiaceae)

The volatile components of the leaves of four species and five varieties of the section Bicornes of Heterotropa were examined by gas chromatography and gas chromatograph-mass spectrometry. The analytical results showed that the species of the section contain phenylpropanes, terpenes, and a paraffin as main components. The components have been used to construct phylogenetic trees of the section Bicornes. Despite some discrepancies, the phylogenetic tree obtained for the section seems to be relevant at the tribal revel. Among the species of the section, geographical variation of twelve localities of H. takaoi also were examined and three chemical types (myristicin, safrole, n-pentane-elemicin types) of H. takaoi are distinguished on the basis of their components.