Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 11-30 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 12 categorizing the active compounds present in aromatic medicinal plants, we aim to analyze their pharmacological effects and therapeutic potential. Additionally, we will investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which these compounds exert their effects and assess the current clinical applications and future therapeutic prospects of these plants. By achieving these goals, we hope to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern scientific research, providing a solid foundation for future studies and applications. This comprehensive evaluation will significantly enhance the scientific understanding of the pharmacological field and plant-based medicine, contributing to the development of new plant-based therapeutic agents. 2 Overview of Aromatic Medicinal Plants 2.1 Definition and characteristics Aromatic medicinal plants are defined as those plants that produce essential oils and other volatile compounds, which are responsible for their distinctive fragrances and therapeutic properties. These plants have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, food preservation, and as natural remedies due to their bioactive compounds (Samarth et al., 2017; Cappai et al., 2020). Aromatic medicinal plants are characterized by their ability to synthesize and store essential oils in specialized cells or glands. These essential oils are complex mixtures of volatile compounds, including terpenes, phenolics, and other secondary metabolites. The chemical properties of these compounds contribute to the plants' pharmacological activities, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects (Petrović et al., 2019; Batiha et al., 2020). The primary distinction between aromatic and non-aromatic medicinal plants lies in the presence of essential oils and volatile compounds. Aromatic plants are rich in these compounds, which are responsible for their scent and many of their therapeutic effects. In contrast, non-aromatic medicinal plants may possess therapeutic properties but lack the volatile components that characterize aromatic plants (Cappai et al., 2020; Šarčević-Todosijević et al., 2023). Non-aromatic plants often rely on other types of bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and glycosides, for their medicinal effects. 2.2 Commonly used aromatic medicinal plants There is a wide variety of aromatic medicinal plants, with common ones including Chinese mint (Mentha haplocalyx), rose (Rosa rugosa), clove (Syzygium aromaticum), and angelica (Angelica dahurica), and other species (Table 1) (Samarth et al., 2017; Batiha et al., 2020; Cappai et al., 2020). These aromatic medicinal plants are distributed across various regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean. They thrive in diverse habitats ranging from temperate to tropical climates, often found in regions with well-drained soils and adequate sunlight (Cappai et al., 2020). Aromatic medicinal plants have been integral to traditional medicine systems worldwide. For example, Mentha haplocalyx is used in Chinese medicine, Syzygium aromaticumin Indian Ayurveda, and Nardostachys jatamansi in Tibetan medicine. These plants are employed for their therapeutic properties, including treating digestive disorders, respiratory ailments, and inflammatory conditions (Samarth et al., 2017; Kieliszek et al., 2020). These plants not only hold a significant place in traditional medicine but also have widespread applications in modern pharmacological research. 2.3 Economic and agricultural importance Aromatic medicinal plants hold significant economic value in global markets due to their applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food, and beverage industries. The demand for natural and eco-friendly products has further boosted their market value (Samarth et al., 2017; Cappai et al., 2020). For instance, the global market for peppermint oil is substantial, driven by its demand in oral care products and therapeutic applications. Similarly, the market for clove oil is robust due to its use in dental care and aromatherapy (Zhao et al., 2022; Yadav et al., 2022). These plants also play a crucial role in agriculture and horticulture, often cultivated for their essential oils and bioactive compounds. They contribute to sustainable agricultural practices by promoting biodiversity and
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