Phytochemical analysis of volatile compounds from two varieties of Leucaena leucocephala (Taramba and Wondergraze) using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method

Leucaena leucocephala var. Taramba and Wondergraze, which are leguminous trees native to Central America, show great potential as fodder crops for livestock. The volatile compounds of these Malaysian varieties have yet to be reported; thereupon, it is critical to understand their pharmacological values. This study determined the volatile compounds in the methanolic extract of fresh leaves of L. leucocephala (var. Taramba and Wondergraze) and in those after being ensiled for 30 days. Using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), we identified over 20 volatile compounds in both fresh and ensiled samples. The compounds exhibited different patterns between the two varieties; for instance, α-tocopherol and thiophene were commonly found in both varieties, while β-amyrin was exclusively present in Wondergraze and campesterol in Taramba. Notably, the primary compounds such as n-hexadecanoic acid, 9,12,15-octadecadienoic acid, and β-sitosterol were similar across both varieties. In the ensiled samples, some volatile compounds initially present in the fresh samples were missing, while new compounds, which include linoelaidic acid and α-tocospiro B, were then discovered. Many of the identified compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cholesterol-lowering activities, which could enhance livestock production by improving animal health, boosting immune function, and reducing reliance on synthetic feed additives or antibiotics.