2-Phenylethanol in the leaves of Bursera velutina Bullock (Burseraceae)

the volatile composition of the leaves of bursera velutina bullock (burseraceae) was determined by a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (gc-ms). the major component found was 2-phenylethanol (29.5%). this is the first report of 2-phenylethanol in the leaves of a species of the genus bursera. in addition, b. velutina also produces monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, diterpenes and alkanes, making it a species with one of the most complex chemical compositions in the genus. this diverse and unique blend of compounds may play an important role in plant defense against its herbivores.