The odorants profiles and bioactivities of agarwood essential oils from two germplasm of Aquilaria sinensis trees by different extraction methods

Odorant profiles, physicochemical properties and bioactivities of agarwood essential oil (AEO) from two germplasms of Aquilaria sinensis by different extraction methods were analyzed and compared. EOs from Qi-Nan agarwood (QNAEO) contained more 2-(2-phenylethyl) chromones (PECs) than EOs from ordinary agarwood (OAEO). PECs contents increased in AEOs by supercritical fluid extraction combined with separation (SFE-S). OAEO by distillation maintained the most balanced key odorants profiles among s1-s6 from 40 to 180 °C. OAEO contained more 4-phenyl-2-butanone and spathulenol compared with QNAEO. PECs increased the density and changed thermo-gravity loss patterns of AEOs. AEOs by SFE-S methods were more competent in the antioxidant scavenging. AEOs were more capable in suppression of IL-6 transcription and releasing than in suppression of TNF-α. OAEO by SFE first separation was the most potential to be used for anti-inflammation. 2-(2-Phenylethyl) chromone and 2-[2-(4-methoxyphenyl)ethyl] chromone didn’t contribute to the anti-inflammation activity of AEO. [Display omitted] •OAEO by distillation maintained the most balanced key odorant profile.•PECs in EOs increased the density and thermal stability and benefited the anti-oxidant activity.•Sesquiterpenoids in OAEO by SFE-S1 played a role in anti-inflammation.