Influence of Sample Processing Techniques and Seasonal Variation on Quantities of Volatile Compounds of Gallberry, Saw-Palmetto, and Wax Myrtle

Abstract

Combustible gas analysis was used to study seasonal changes in the quantity of volatiles in foliage of gallberry (Ilex glabra), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera) and saw palmetto (Serenoa repens). Small). Fresh and freeze-dried samples were compared to determine whether freeze-drying and grinding reduces the quantity of low-temperature volatiles prior to pro- cessing. Seasonal differences in volatile content do seem to occur, particularly in gallberry. Freeze-drying and grinding samples prior to processing did not seem to affect volatile retention.