Seasonal variations in trans-2-hexenal and linolenic acid in homogenates of Thea sinensis leaves

The seasonal variations in the amounts of C₆-volatile components cis-3-hexenal trans-2-hexenal n-hexanal) and their precursors (linoleic and linolenic acid) in homogenates of Thea sinensis leaves were quantitatively analyzed throughout the year. Formation of trans-2-hexenal began in the middle of April and reached a maximum during July. Towards autumn the aldehyde gradually decreased and, in winter (December to March), was virtually absent. The levels of cis-3-hexenol remained constant during May–December. cis-3-Hexenal showed a similar variation pattern to that of trans-2-hexenal. The major fatty acids in the leaves were palmitic, palmitoleic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acid, and occurred in non-ionic lipids and phospholipid fractions. The amounts of linoleic and linolenic acid did not show any marked variation except for a big peak in October.