Linalool enantiomeric distribution in rosewood-reminiscent populations in Central Amazon

The enantiomeric distribution of linalool can strongly impact the fragrance of essential oils, thereby affecting the usage criteria of linalool for the perfumery industry. The enantiomers 3R-(-)-linalool and 3S-(+)-linalool present distinctive aromas; the former is woody, floral and lavender-like, while the latter is sweet, herb-like and citric. The aim of this research was to investigate variations in the enantiomeric distribution of linalool in oils extracted from the leaves and branches of 54 samples from rosewood (Aniba rosaeodora Ducke) trees in natural populations in the Brazilian Amazon. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation, and the analysis of enantiomer composition was performed using chiral gas chromatography. The ratio 3R-(-)-linalool:3S-(+)-linalool varied between 5:95 and 44:56 in the samples. The enantiomeric distribution was not significantly different between oils from leaves across different collection sites but was significantly different between leaves and branches, indicating that these plant organs have distinct olfactory properties.