A Research on Species Diversity and Ethno Botanical Utilization of Lamiaceae Family in Southern Turkey

Lamiaceae/Labiatae family includes the highest number of commercially used species such as mint, rosemary, thyme, oregano, lavender, marjoram and sage. These species are generally used as flavoring additives in meat dishes, sausage products, seafood, stews, salads, canned foods, sauces and soups. In this study, the species diversity of Lamiaceae family members in Akseki-？brad？-Manavgat districts of Antalya in southern Turkey and their ethnobotanical utilization in the region and in the literatures were presented. 149 taxa (131 at species level) belonging to 27 genera of Lamiaceae were identified in the study area. Of these, 50 taxa (33.56%) are endemic to Turkey. The native people harvest species from wild populations and generally air-dry them under sun or on shadow places. They consume and sell mainly air-dried Origanum onites (Turkish oregano) leaves. They obtain essential oil traditionally by steam distillation from Origanum majorana (white marjoram) due to its high oil yield and efficiency. Herbal treatments are used for cure various diseases such as strong cough, chronic cold, wounds, gastrointestinal disorders and skin problems. Wild-crafting of populations may cause genetic erosion of the species. The sustainability of these species should be maintained by genetic resource conservation programs by in situ and ex situ conservation strategies