Analysis of Monoterpenes and Monoterpenoids

Monoterpenes and monoterpenoids represent a set of chemicals widely diffused in plants whose basic structure consists of two linked isoprene units. In addition to their abundance in plants, monoterpenes and monoterpenoids constitute approximately 90% of essential oils and demonstrate a wide diversity in their chemical structures and biological activities. Many members of monoterpenes and monoterpenoids family exert interesting pharmacological function such as antibacterial, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory and antipruritic characteristics. Their abundance and low cost have favorably positioned them as flavors and fragrances. One major consumption of these compounds is in nutraceutical formulations. The current chapters describes the phytochemistry of representative family members. The biological activities and interactions have been discussed. The techniques of extraction, purification and fractionation of these compounds have also been covered. Analytical instruments primarily used for identification and quantification of monoterpenes and monoterpenoids are also briefly reviewed.