Volatile polysulphides of asafoetida

Abstract By means of steam distillation, adsorption chromatography and GC/MS analysis, seven sulphur components (di-, tri- and tetra-sulphides) have been characterised in addition to those previously reported from Ferula asafoetida of Afghan origin. The identity of some of the components has been confirmed by synthesis and comparison of GC retentions. The quantitative composition of the constituents in the volatile oil has also been determined.