Update on enantiomeric composition of (1R)-(+) and (1S)-(-) camphor in essential oil by enantioselettive gas chromatography

The enantiomeric ratios of camphor have been determined in authentic essential oils, using heptakis(6-O-t-butylsilyl-2,3-di-O-ethyl)-beta-cyclodextrin as the chiral stationary phase. An enantiomeric excess of (1S)-(-) within 72-75% is characteristic of coriander oil (Coriandrum sativum L.). Contrary, an enantiomeric excess of (1R)-(+) characterizes the essential oil of sage (> 90% for Salvia sclarea L. and 50-70% for Salvia officinalis L.) and of basil (> 94% for Ocimum basilicum L.).