Evolution and chemical diversity of the volatile compounds in Salvia species.

Introduction: The plant essential oils are composed of volatile compounds and have significant value in preventing and treating neurological diseases, anxiety, depression, among others. The genus Salvia has been shown to be an important medicinal resource, especially the aerial parts of genus Salvia, which are rich in volatile compounds; however, the chemical diversity and distribution patterns of volatile compounds in Salvia species are still unknown.

Objective: The work is performed to analyse the chemical diversity and distribution patterns of volatile compounds in genus Salvia.