Teucrium polium
The genus Teucrium contains over 290 species and is among the most important genera in the Lamiaceae (Labiatae) family, widely distributed primarily across Europe, North Africa, and the temperate regions of Asia, particularly the Mediterranean [1].
Teucrium species are mostly perennial and occasionally annual. They present as shrubs, subshrubs, woody at the base, and rarely herbaceous. Leaves are opposite, petiolate, sessile, or subsessile; simple with entire or toothed margins; lobed or pinnatifid. Inflorescences may be small capitula, racemose, paniculate, or capitate [1].
Teucrium polium features terminal and corymbose inflorescences with bisexual flowers. The corolla is white or reddish-white, arranged in racemose or head-like clusters, axillary verticillate cymes, or terminal racemes forming dense spherical to ovate shapes. Bracts are linear-spatulate and shorter than the flowers (12–15 mm diameter). The calyx is tubular-campanulate and 5-lobed (4 mm). Leaves are sessile, simple, oblong-linear, spatulate with crenate margins and obtuse apex. They are oppositely arranged, shorter than flowers (10–15 mm long, 3–5 mm wide), crenulated at least in the upper half, and strongly revolute [2].
Traditionally, T. polium has been used for treating abdominal pain, indigest Traditionally, T. polium has been used for treating abdominal pain, indigestion, common cold, diabetes, urogenital diseases, hypolipidemia, nociceptive and inflammatory conditions [2].
The genus contains various natural compounds such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, fatty acid esters, diterpenes, flavonoids, and polyphenolics [3].
The main essential oil components of T. polium vary depending on geographic origin. The Balkan type is rich in germacrene D (15.0%) with considerable β-caryophyllene (5.1–6.9%), δ-cadinene (3.6–4.5%), and γ-cadinene (3.6–4.1%). The North African type exhibits high β-pinene (20–30%), germacrene D (up to 15.0%), and α-pinene (5–10%). The Mediterranean type is characterized by trans-caryophyllene (up to 30%), limonene (up to 30%), and germacrene D (up to 15.0%) as main constituents [4–7].
**Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.
Chemical Composition (%) of Teucrium polium Essential Oils from Mediterranean, North Africa, Europe, and West Asia:
|
|
Mediterranean |
Iran |
Balkan Peninsula |
Algerian |
|
α-Pinene |
9-18 |
up to 8 |
5-10 |
5-10 |
|
β-Pinene |
10-25 |
up to 4 |
up to 10 |
up to 30 |
|
trans-Caryophyllene |
5-35 |
1-3 |
5-8 |
- |
|
Limonene |
5-25 |
2-5 |
5 |
5-7 |
|
Δ-Cadinene |
up to 4 |
up to 9 |
1-2 |
trace |
|
1,6-Germacradien-5-ol |
- |
up to 15 |
- |
- |
|
α-Cadinol |
- |
10-15 |
trace |
up to 10 |
|
Germacrene D |
6-20 |
1-2 |
15-17 |
15-17 |
Applications and Benefits Across Various Industries:
1- Pharmaceutical Industry
Teucrium polium essential oil is highly valued in the pharmaceutical sector due to its broad spectrum of medicinal properties. It contains bioactive compounds such as α-pinene, β-pinene, caryophyllene, linalool, and spathulenol, which exhibit potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities. These antimicrobial properties make the oil effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi, supporting its use in topical treatments for skin infections and wound healing. Its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects are beneficial for managing arthritis, muscle pain, and inflammatory disorders. Additionally, the antioxidant capacity of T. polium essential oil protects cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and chronic diseases including cancer and cardiovascular conditions. Emerging studies also suggest potential anticancer effects, highlighting its promise for further oncology research.
2- Cosmetic and Personal Care Industry
The pleasant woody, floral, and earthy aroma of Teucrium polium essential oil makes it a valuable ingredient in perfumes, body sprays, and skincare products. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties render it effective for acne treatments, anti-aging creams, and moisturizers that soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. Compounds such as linalool and β-myrcene contribute calming and relaxing effects, making the oil a popular component in aromatherapy blends and stress-relief products. Furthermore, its ability to promote skin healing and reduce inflammation enhances its suitability for after-sun lotions and wound-care formulations. Natural insect-repelling qualities expand its use in personal care items like insect-repellent sprays and creams.
3- Food and Beverage Industry
Due to its distinctive earthy, herbal, and mildly floral flavor profile, Teucrium polium essential oil is utilized as a natural flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. It complements seasoning for sauces, soups, and herbal teas. The oil’s antimicrobial properties help preserve food products by inhibiting bacterial and fungal growth, naturally extending shelf life. Caryophyllene and α-pinene present in the oil contribute antioxidant effects, which aid in preventing oxidation of fats and oils in foods. Additionally, some herbal teas and dietary supplements incorporate T. polium extracts for their digestive benefits, including relief from indigestion, bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
4- Aromatherapy and Wellness Industry
The calming and relaxing qualities of Teucrium polium essential oil—largely attributed to linalool and β-myrcene—have made it widely used in aromatherapy and wellness products. It is commonly included in massage oils, bath formulations, and diffusers to reduce stress, anxiety, and muscle tension. Its sedative properties support improved sleep quality and relaxation, making it an ingredient of choice for sleep aids and relaxation sprays. Inhalation is believed to elevate mood and enhance mental clarity, reinforcing its use in cognitive wellness and mental health applications.
5- Agriculture and Pest Control
The insect-repellent effects of Teucrium polium essential oil, particularly due to α-pinene and β-pinene, offer value in agriculture and pest management. It serves as a natural alternative to synthetic pesticides, protecting crops from harmful insects without damaging beneficial pollinators. Its antifungal and antibacterial activities help safeguard plants against fungal and bacterial infections. The oil is also incorporated into natural insect-repellent products such as sprays and candles to deter mosquitoes and other pests.
6- Veterinary Medicine
In veterinary applications, Teucrium polium essential oil is employed for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to treat skin infections, assist wound healing, and alleviate digestive issues in animals. Its natural insect-repellent qualities help protect livestock from flies and other parasites. Additionally, its calming effects are being explored for managing anxiety and stress in animals
7- Cleaning and Household Products
Thanks to its robust antimicrobial and antifungal actions, Teucrium polium essential oil is included in eco-friendly cleaning products like disinfectant sprays, surface cleaners, and air fresheners. Its deodorizing ability and insect-repellent nature make it a popular additive in household cleaning formulations. The oil’s earthy and herbal scent imparts a refreshing fragrance to cleaning products while enhancing their antimicrobial efficacy.
References
1- I. C. Hedge, Advances in Labiatae science 1992, 7.
2- S. Bahramikia, P. H. H. Gavyar and R. Yazdanparast, Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine 2022, 12, 224.
3- S. Abdul Azim S, E. Hamzeh H and S. Ungve H, 1987.
4- G. Catinella, N. Badalamenti, V. Ilardi, S. Rosselli, L. De Martino and M. Bruno, Molecules 2021, 26, 643.
5- S. Chabane, A. Boudjelal, E. Napoli, A. Benkhaled and G. Ruberto, Journal of essential oil research 2021, 33, 143.
6- H. Sadeghi, S. Jamalpoor and M. H. Shirzadi, Industrial crops and Products 2014, 54, 130.
7- V. Mitić, O. Jovanović, V. Stankov-Jovanović, B. Zlatkovic and G. Stojanovic, Natural Product Communications 2012, 7, 1934578X1200700129.
