The antimicrobial properties and chemical composition of leaf essential oils of selected lamiaceae species in South Africa

Abstract

Many species belonging to Lamiaceae ( mint family ) are used extensively in traditional healing. Indigenous Lamiaceae specie such as Ballota Africana, Leonotis loenurus and Salvia runcinata have a distinct aromatic property. Although many members of the Lamiacae such as lavender and rosemary have become household names with proven antibacterial properties, the South African Representatives of this family of plants remain largely unexplored.