Botanical Overview
Mentha japonica is a species in the Lamiaceae family. The mint family (Lamiaceae) includes aromatic herbs and shrubs with square stems, opposite leaves, and two-lipped flowers. Many species produce essential oils in glandular trichomes on their leaves and stems. This family is one of the most important sources of culinary and medicinal herbs worldwide. Phytochemical data for this species are limited at present.
General Description
Initially described as Micromeria japonica by Friedrich Anton Wilhelm Miquel, it was first identified under its present name by Japanese botanist Tomitaro Makino in 1906. A relatively rare plant, it is classified by the Japanese Ministry of Environment as a Near Threatened species.
Family Context
The Lamiaceae family is large and widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Basil — 86 documented uses
- Rosemary — 60 documented uses
- Agbo — 54 documented uses
- Sage — 49 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Mentha japonica has been recorded in Japan, Russia, and United States.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 3 compounds in this species: (+)-pulegone, (-)-limonene, (-)-menthone.
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. The limited documentation available for this species represents an opportunity for ethnobotanical research.