Objective: To study the volatile compounds from inflorescence of Cistanche deserticola and provide basis for its utilization and seed breeding.
Methods: The volatile compounds were collected by dynamic headspace adsorption and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).
Results: Forty volatile components were identified in inflorescence of Cistanche deserticola from squaring period to full-bloom period. The main components in buds of Cistanche deserticola were hydrocarbons and green leaf volatiles in squaring period. Some components were characteristic in buds and disappeared or decreased in flowers. The relative contents of some components gradually increased with the buds blooming. And some components only emerged in flowers of Cistanche deserticola. The higher content of esters and aromatics were found in flowers, which were significantly increased in comparison with the volatile compounds from buds.
Conclusion: The volatile compounds from inflorescence of Cistanche deserticola were complex, consisting of various compositions and significantly different with buds blooming.