Damage induced variations in essential oils composition and volatile emission in aromatic plants

Abstract

Phytochemical induction of monoterpenes following herbivory by insects and mechanical damage, was studied in Minthostachis mollis (Lamiaceae), a plant native to central Argentina withe medicinal and aromatic uses in the region.The monoterpene pulegone and menthone were analyze in M. mollis 24 and 28 hs after leaves were mechanical damage or exposed to insects with different feeding habits. Essential oils composition and emission of volatile were assessed. Menthone content generally decresead whereas pulegone concentration increased in all treatments where insects were involved.