Botanical Overview
Spanish Marjoram (Thymus mastichina) belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. 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.
General Description
It is endemic to the central Iberian Peninsula in Spain and Portugal. The perennial herb, with white flowers, can reach a height of 50 centimetres (1+1⁄2 ft). Uses: Oil from the flower is used in some pain relieving lotion. Such as Aleve X.
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
Spanish Marjoram has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Spain, France, and others.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities