Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 11-30 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 13 serving as natural pest repellents (Cappai et al., 2020; Šarčević-Todosijević et al., 2023). For example, Citrus reticulata is commonly intercropped with other crops to benefit from its pest-deterrent effects. Table 1 Commonly used aromatic medicinal plants No. Plant Description Geographic distribution and habitat Traditional uses in different cultures 1 Mentha haplocalyx (Chinese mint) Known for its cooling sensation and used in digestive aids and pain relief. Commonly found in temperate regions. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for cooling and digestive properties. 2 Rosa rugosa (Rugosa Rose) Valued for its fragrant flowers and used in skincare products and as an astringent. Native to East Asia but has been cultivated widely. Used in European herbal traditions for skincare and as an astringent. 3 Syzygium aromaticum(Clove) Contains eugenol and is widely used for its analgesic and antiseptic properties. Indigenous to the Maluku Islands in Indonesia. Staple in Ayurvedic medicine for its antiseptic qualities. 4 Angelica dahurica (Chinese Angelica) Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Native to East Asia, particularly in China and Korea. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for anti-inflammatory properties. 5 Nardostachys jatamansi (Spikenard) Used for its calming effects and in the treatment of stress and anxiety. Found in the Himalayan region. Used in Tibetan medicine for its calming effects. 6 Citrus reticulata (Mandarin Orange) Its peel is used in traditional medicine for digestive and respiratory issues. Widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for digestive and respiratory issues. 7 Amomum villosum (Chinese Cardamom) Known for its use in digestive disorders and as a carminative. Native to Southeast Asia. Used in Southeast Asian traditional medicine for digestive disorders. 8 Agastache rugosa (Korean Mint) Used in traditional medicine for its antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties. Native to East Asia, particularly in China and Korea. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties. The cultivation and harvesting of aromatic medicinal plants must consider sustainability and environmental impact. Overharvesting and habitat destruction pose significant threats to some species. Sustainable farming practices, such as organic cultivation and responsible wild harvesting, are crucial to ensure the long-term availability of these valuable plants (Cappai et al., 2020; Šarčević-Todosijević et al., 2023). Moreover, initiatives to conserve plant biodiversity and promote sustainable use are essential to maintain ecological balance and support local economies. By understanding the definition, characteristics, and significance of aromatic medicinal plants, we can appreciate their multifaceted roles in traditional medicine, modern pharmacology, and global economies. Further research into their active ingredients and mechanisms of action will continue to uncover their therapeutic potential and contribute to the development of new medicinal products. 3 Active Ingredients of Aromatic Medicinal Plants 3.1 Identification of active compounds Aromatic medicinal plants are rich in various types of active compounds, including essential oils, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Essential oils are volatile compounds responsible for the distinctive aromas of these plants and often contain terpenes, phenylpropanoids, and other secondary metabolites. They are widely used in industries such as cosmetics, flavoring, and herbal beverages (Samarth et al., 2017; Tasneem et al., 2019). Alkaloids are nitrogen-containing compounds known for their potent pharmacological effects. Flavonoids are polyphenolic
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