Chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils in the family Lamiaceae

Abstract

The family Lamiaceae, commonly known as the mint family, comprises a diverse group of aromatic plants known for their rich essential oil content. This systematic review aims to comprehensively evaluate the chemical composition and biological activities of essential oils derived from various species within the Lamiaceae family. A thorough literature search was conducted across reputable scientific databases, resulting in a meticulous selection of studies meeting the inclusion criteria. The review synthesizes findings from a wide range of investigations, highlighting the chemical constituents present in Lamiaceae-derived essential oils. Major components such as monoterpenes (e.g., limonene, menthol) and sesquiterpenes (e.g., caryophyllene, germacrene) are commonly identified across various species. Moreover, this review provides an extensive overview of the diverse biological activities associated with these essential oils, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and insecticidal properties. Furthermore, the systematic review discusses potential applications and implications of Lamiaceae-derived essential oils in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agriculture, and food preservation. The comprehensive analysis presented in this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and industries interested in harnessing the immense potential of essential oils from the Lamiaceae family for a wide array of applications. Future research directions are also suggested based on identified knowledge gaps in the existing literature.