Backhousia anisata Vickery, an Alternative Source of (E)-Anethole

Abstract

Naturally occurring Backhousia anisata was surveyed within the Bellinger Valley of eastern Australia, the only region where it is known to be endemic. During the course of the survey, 26 sites were located. Ten of these were chosen for further study. The geography and climate of each site was assessed and the basic soil chemistry determined. A total of 44 trees from the ten sites were then selected to define the growth characteristics and chemical composition of individual trees. Leaf samples were extracted with ethanol to determine (E)-anethole and methyl chavicol percentages. Leaf from selected trees was also steam distilled for determination of oil yield and oil quality for comparison with other anethole and methyl chavicol rich oils. The chemical composition and physical constants of the anethole-rich oils when compared with those of other commercial sources, suggest that B. anisata provides an excellent alternative source for the (E)-anethole rich aniseed, star anise and fennel oils. These results better define the natural distribution of the Backhousia source of (E)-anethole and methyl chavicol and attempt to match distribution with the physical, climatic, geographic, growth, chemical characteristics and flavor and fragrance potential of each chemotype.

Key Word Index:

• Backhousia anisata
• Myrtaceae
• aniseed myrtle
• (E)-anethole
• methyl chavicol