Scientific name: Teucrium polium L.

Common name: Felty germander, Poleigamander

Family: Lamiaceae

 

Introduction

The Teucrium genus is a large group of flowering plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family, which includes over 300 species distributed widely across Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, and North and South America. Plants in the Teucrium genus are known for their aromatic properties and medicinal uses, with many species being rich in essential oils and bioactive compounds such as terpenes, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. The genus is named after Teucer, a Trojan prince in Greek mythology, and the plants are well-adapted to a variety of environmental conditions, from arid and semi-arid regions to temperate and Mediterranean climates. Teucrium species are often characterized by small, fragrant flowers, drought resistance, and the production of secondary metabolites that contribute to their medicinal value.

 

Teucrium polium

Teucrium polium is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Lamiaceae family, widely distributed across the Mediterranean basin, North Africa, and Western Asia, particularly thriving in dry, rocky habitats. It is a small shrub, typically 20–50 cm tall, with highly branched stems covered in dense white-woolly hairs (tomentose), giving it a silvery appearance. The leaves are simple, sessile, and ovate to lanceolate, often deeply lobed and aromatic due to essential oils housed in glandular trichomes. The plant blooms with small, tubular, pink to purple flowers arranged in dense terminal clusters. Anatomical studies highlight distinct features like thick cuticles, abundant trichomes, and well-defined vascular bundles—traits contributing to its adaptation in arid climates.

 

Essential Oil Quality

α-Pinene, β-pinene, caryophyllene, and linalool are consistently identified as the dominant compounds in Teucrium polium essential oil, with variations in the presence of elemol, spathulenol, verbenene, and β-myrcene depending on the region and environmental conditions.

The chemical composition of Teucrium polium essential oil varies significantly across different ecological regions in Western Asia, with distinct profiles observed between arid, semi-arid, and sub-humid areas. In sub-humid areas, guaiol, α-pinene, β-phellandrene, and limonene are the main components, while in semi-arid, differences in composition and plant morphology are linked to drought resistance traits.

The following sections explore the key properties and applications of the major compounds found in this essential oil:

1- α-Pinene is a monoterpene known for its fresh, woody, and pine-like aroma. It is one of the most common terpenes in nature, found in coniferous trees, rosemary, and sage. α-Pinene has strong anti-inflammatory, bronchodilator, and antimicrobial properties. It is widely used in the fragrance and flavoring industry due to its pleasant pine scent. Its antimicrobial activity makes it a useful ingredient in cleaning products and natural disinfectants. In medicine, α-pinene shows promise as a bronchodilator, helping to open airways in respiratory conditions such as asthma. Its anti-inflammatory effects also make it beneficial in topical treatments for pain and swelling.

2- β-Pinene is a monoterpene with a woody, earthy, and herbal aroma. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. β-Pinene is commonly used in the flavor and fragrance industries for its earthy scent, making it a popular ingredient in perfumes, colognes, and food additives. Its insect-repelling properties make it useful in natural insecticides and household cleaning products. In medicinal applications, β-pinene has shown potential in relieving inflammation and pain, and some studies suggest it may improve cognitive function and memory retention. Its antimicrobial activity also makes it valuable in natural preservation and health care products.

3- Caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene with a spicy, peppery aroma. It is unique among terpenes because it can bind to the CB2 receptors of the endocannabinoid system in the human body, giving it potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Caryophyllene is widely used in food and beverage flavoring for its spicy and warm taste. It is also incorporated into perfumes and cosmetics for its distinct aroma and potential skin benefits. Its interaction with the CB2 receptors makes it a promising compound for treating chronic pain, arthritis, and neurological disorders. Caryophyllene also exhibits antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which make it useful in natural medicine and preservation.

4- Linalool is a monoterpene alcohol with a floral, sweet, and slightly spicy aroma. It is known for its calming and sedative effects, making it a popular ingredient in aromatherapy products and relaxation aids. Linalool is widely used in perfumes and personal care products due to its pleasant floral scent. Its antimicrobial and antifungal activity makes it effective in skincare and hygiene products. Linalool also acts as a natural insecticide and is included in pest control formulations. In medicine, it demonstrates anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, supporting its use in topical treatments for skin irritation and muscle soreness. Its relaxing properties also contribute to its use in managing anxiety and stress-related disorders.

5- Elemol is a sesquiterpene alcohol with a warm, woody, and slightly floral scent. It is commonly found in the essential oils of various plants, including Teucrium polium. Elemol has antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable ingredient in medicinal and cosmetic products. Its calming and grounding scent makes it a popular addition to perfumes and aromatherapy oils. In medicine, elemol is studied for its potential to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. It also shows promise as a natural insect repellent due to its ability to deter mosquitoes and other pests.

6- Spathulenol is a sesquiterpene alcohol with an earthy, slightly sweet aroma. It is known for its antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Spathulenol is widely used in the cosmetic and perfume industries for its earthy scent and stability in formulations. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects make it beneficial in skincare products aimed at reducing redness and irritation. In medicine, spathulenol has been shown to have cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, indicating potential in cancer research and treatment. Its antimicrobial activity also makes it useful in natural cleaning products and wound-healing applications.

7- Verbenene is a monoterpene hydrocarbon with a fresh, citrusy, and slightly herbal aroma. It is less common than other terpenes but is known for its insect-repelling, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Verbenene is used in perfumes and personal care products for its bright and refreshing scent. In medicinal applications, it shows potential as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent, particularly in treating skin infections and promoting wound healing. Its insect-repelling properties make it a useful ingredient in natural pest control products and household cleaners.

8- β-Myrcene is a monoterpene with a musky, earthy, and slightly fruity aroma. It is one of the most abundant terpenes found in plant essential oils and is known for its sedative, analgesic (pain-relieving), and anti-inflammatory properties. β-Myrcene is widely used in the fragrance and flavoring industries due to its musky and fruity scent. It enhances the effects of other terpenes and cannabinoids, making it a key component in medicinal cannabis formulations. In medicine, β-myrcene shows promise in reducing pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms. Its sedative properties also make it useful in sleep aids and relaxation products.

 

 

Applications and Benefits in Various Industries

1. Pharmaceutical Industry: Teucrium polium essential oil is highly valued in the pharmaceutical industry due to its broad spectrum of medicinal properties. The oil contains bioactive compounds such as α-pinene, β-pinene, caryophyllene, linalool, and spathulenol, which exhibit strong antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant activities. Its antimicrobial properties make it effective against a wide range of bacteria and fungi, contributing to its use in topical treatments for skin infections and wound healing. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects support its use in treating arthritis, muscle pain, and inflammatory diseases. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of Teucrium polium essential oil helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disorders. Some studies have also indicated potential anticancer properties, making it a promising candidate for further research in oncology.
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 make it suitable for use in acne treatments, anti-aging creams, and moisturizers designed to soothe irritated skin and reduce redness. The presence of linalool and β-myrcene contributes to its calming and relaxing effect, making it a popular addition to aromatherapy oils and stress-relief products. The oil's ability to promote skin healing and reduce inflammation also makes it beneficial in after-sun lotions and wound-care products. Its natural insect-repelling properties further increase its utility in personal care formulations such as insect-repellent sprays and creams.
3. Food and Beverage Industry: Due to its distinctive flavor profile, Teucrium polium essential oil is used as a natural flavoring agent in the food and beverage industry. Its earthy, herbal, and slightly floral taste makes it suitable for seasoning sauces, soups, and herbal teas. The oil’s antimicrobial properties help to preserve food products by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi, extending shelf life naturally. The presence of caryophyllene and α-pinene contributes to its antioxidant properties, which can help prevent the oxidation of fats and oils in food products. Some herbal teas and dietary supplements also contain Teucrium polium extracts for their digestive and therapeutic benefits, including relief from indigestion, bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
4. Aromatherapy and Wellness Industry: The calming and relaxing properties of Teucrium polium essential oil, particularly due to the presence of linalool and β-myrcene, make it widely used in the aromatherapy and wellness industry. The oil is included in massage oils, bath products, and diffusers to reduce stress, anxiety, and muscle tension. Its sedative effects support improved sleep quality and relaxation, making it a popular ingredient in sleep aids and relaxation sprays. Inhalation of Teucrium polium essential oil is believed to enhance mood and mental clarity, supporting its use in mental health and cognitive wellness products.
5. Agriculture and Pest Control: The insect-repelling properties of Teucrium polium essential oil, particularly due to the presence of α-pinene and β-pinene, make it valuable in the agriculture and pest control industries. It is used as a natural alternative to chemical pesticides to protect crops from pests and insects without harming beneficial pollinators. Its antifungal and antibacterial activity also helps protect plants from common fungal and bacterial infections. Natural insect-repellent products, including sprays and candles, also incorporate Teucrium polium essential oil to ward off mosquitoes and other pests.
6. Veterinary Medicine: In veterinary medicine, Teucrium polium essential oil is used for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties in treating skin infections, wound healing, and digestive issues in animals. Its natural insect-repelling properties make it useful in protecting livestock from flies and other pests. The oil’s calming effects are also explored for managing anxiety and stress in animals.
7. Cleaning and Household Products: Due to its strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties, Teucrium polium essential oil is included in eco-friendly cleaning products such as disinfectant sprays, surface cleaners, and air fresheners. Its ability to neutralize odors and its natural insect-repelling properties make it a popular ingredient in household cleaning formulations. Its earthy and herbal aroma adds a refreshing scent to cleaning products while enhancing their antimicrobial effectiveness.

 

Selected References:

• Asgharipour, M. R., & Shabankare, H. G. (2017). Comparison of chemical composition of Teucrium polium L. essential oil affected by phenological stages. Bangladesh J Bot, 46(2), 583-8.
• Boukhebti, H., Ramdani, M., Lasmi, I. M. E. N., Katfi, F. O. U. A. D., Chaker, A. N., & LOGRADA, T. (2019). Chemical composition, antibacterial activity, and anatomical study of teucrium Polium L. Asian J Pharm Clin Res, 12(6), 337-341.
• Jalali, K., Yavari, A., Jafari, L., & Hasan, M. (2021). Comparison of essential oil content and composition of different parts from Teucrium polium L. in natural habitat of Kerman province. Journal of Plant Process and Function, 10(42), 175-188.
• Mahmoodi, R., Kazeminia, M., & Kabodari, A. (2017). Review on composition and antimicrobial effects of Teucrium (Teucrium polium L.) grown in Iran and comparison with the around the world. Journal of Babol University of Medical Sciences, 19(2), 54-64.
• Sadeghi, H., Jamalpoor, S., & Shirzadi, M. H. (2014). Variability in essential oil of Teucrium polium L. of different latitudinal populations. Industrial Crops and Products, 54, 130-134.