Effects of different factors influencing the essential oil properties of Thymus vulgaris L.

Abstract

Thymus vulgaris L. is a well-know medicinal and aromatic plant native to the Mediterranean region. The essential oil is considered as the main active constituent, being responsible for its typical odour and taste as well as for several therapeutic effects. Our aim was to demonstrate the most important factors influencing the quality and quantity parameters of thyme oil by summarizing the available literature data and our own scientific results. Genetic background, climatic and growing conditions, techniques of primary processing, storage conditions as well as different extraction methods have proven effects on the essential oil properties and, as a consequence, on its biological activity, either.