Effect of Post Harvest Drying Methods on the Essential Oil Composition of Nardostachys jatamansi DC.
Published Jul 4, 2017 · R. Chauhan, M. Nautiyal, G. Figuérédo
Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants
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Abstract
Abstract Nardostachys jatamansi DC. (Valerianaceae) is an important plant used in Ayurveda, Homeopathy, local healthcare and modern medicine industries. The drug produces essential oil (Spikenard oil) on extraction which is the source of variety of medicinal and aromatic products. Drug was collected from natural populations during the month of October. Essential oil was extracted from fresh, room and oven dried samples by using Clevenger type apparatus and analyzed with GC-MS. Comparison revealed variations in the composition of the essential oil. Concentration of most of the active constituents of the essential oil varied with methods of drying applied. Patchouli alcohol showed variation between 40-52% with methods of drying applied. Therefore, N. jatamansi should be dried at low temperature (22-34°C) to minimize deterioration in the composition of the essential oil; that is directly related to medicinal properties.