A multidimensional qualitative analysis approach, consisting of accurate mass measurement, retention index, MS/MS and mass spectrum search, has been proposed to identify compounds, which could improve efficiency and accuracy of qualitative analysis. Headspace-gas chromatography-quadrupole mass spectrometry, headspace-gas chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry and headspace-gas chroma-tography-tandem mass spectrometry have been utilized to analyze volatile components from Osmanthus fragrans Lour., which were identified by the above multidimensional qualitative analysis approach. The re-sults showed that 47 volatile compounds were totally identified, of which monoterpene and sesquiterpene compounds were the main components. This qualitative analysis strategy is accurate and reliable, and can be widely applied to qualitative analysis of the volatile components from complex samples.

Key words: volatile compone, accurate mass measurement, Osmanthus fra-grans Lour., retention index, MS/MS, mass spectrum search