Chemical Composition of Myrtus communis L. (Myrtaceae) Fruits

The chemical composition of Myrtus communis L. extracts were prepared and analyzed by GC-MS.
Sixteen phytochemical constituents of chemical compounds were identified in fruits of Myrtus
communis. The relative percentage of linoleic acid methyl ester was high (27.19%), followed by oleic
acid methyl ester (21.18%) and then octane 3,5- dimethyl (16.47%), dodecane (11.39%), palmitic acid
methyl ester (6.80%) and tetradecane (6.69%) as well as, some components present in lower
percentage such as stearic acid methyl ester (3.32%). GC-MS analysis revealed that 16 different
chemical components were identified in the Myrtus communis, with high amount of linoleic acid
(27.19%) helpful in revealing the pharmaceutical value of the plant. It also provides information about
its trado-medical use. GC-MS analysis is important step towards understanding the nature of active
ingredients in this medicinal plant and mentioned phytocompounds would be useful in the preparation
of novel drugs for treating diseases.