Backhousia anisata Vickery, an alternative source of (E)-anethole

Naturally occurring Backhousia anisaia was surveyed within the Bellinger Va lley of eastern Australia, the only region where it is known to be endemic. During the course of the survey, 26 sites were located. Ten of these were chosen For further study. The geography and climate of each site was assess ed and the basic soil chemistry: determined. A total of 44 trees from the t en sites were then selected to define the growth th characteristics and che mical composition of individual trees. Leaf samples were extracted with eth anol to determine (E)-anethole and methyl chavicol percentages. Leaf from s elected trees was also steam distilled for determination of oil yield and o il quality For comparison with other anethole and methyl chavicol rich oils . The chemical composition and physical constants of the anethole-rich oils when compared with those of other commercial sources, suggest that B. anis aia provides an excellent alternative source for the (E)-anethole rich anis eed, star anise and fennel oils. These results better define the natural di stribution of the Backhousia source OF (E)-anethole and methyl chavicol and attempt to match distribution with the physical, climatic, geographic; gro wth th, chemical characteristics and flavor and fragrance potential of each chemotype.