INTRODUCTION
The genus Cordia, one of the most representative in the Boraginaceae family, consists of
approximately 320 species, which are presented as trees, shrubs or herbs, with the main habitat in South America.(1) The wild or Texas olive (Cordia boissieri A.DC.) or anacahuita
is an evergreen native tree of Rio Grande Valley in Texas to Monterrey, Mexico. The tree is recommended as an accent ornamental along borders because of the showy flowers.(2) Some
Cordia species are characterized by the aroma they release from the leaves due to the
presence of terpenic hydrocarbons and their oxygenated derivatives (essential oil) which is of interest for industries like the perfume, cosmetic, nutrition and pharmaceutical industries.(3)