GC-MS analysis of essential oil of Kayu Papi (Exocarpus latifolius R. Br., Fam: Santalacea from East Nusa Tenggara

Abstract Exocarpus latifolius R.Br. known as Kayu Papi or shrub sandalwood, naturally occurred in East Nusa Tenggara. This species classified as fragrant wood and, on some occasions, has become sandalwood (Santalum album Linn) substitution. This species is beneficial as a medicine. A recent study indicated that Exocarpic acid isolated from Papua New Guinea origin empirically cures tuberculosis in the in vitro treatments. However, the study of the biological compound of this species from the region is little known. This research is aimed at elucidating chemical compounds in the Kayu Papi wood originating from East Nusa Tenggara. The method was using GCMS analysis of the essential oil through prior steam distillation. The result revealed that thirty-two compounds represent 99.94% of essential oils, with six major peaks in approximately 41 minutes’ retention in total. The six-dominant compound of oils were Benzeneethanamine, alpha-methyl-N-(phenyl methylene) 34.37%, Alpha-curcumen (14.05%), Tridecane, 2-methyl-2-phenyl (11.2%), Alpha-calacorene (6.40 %), Levomethamphetamine (4.46%), Benzene, (1-1-dimethylnonyl) (4.11%). Whereas the twenty-six remaining components were less than and just over 3% each. There was no exocarpic acid identified, but some compounds are identical to sandalwood or other fragrant wood. The study may complement Santalacea’s list of chemical compounds to distinguish sandalwood and other fragrant wood.