Ecological and Plant Community Implication on Essential Oils Composition in Useful Wild Officinal Species: A Pilot Case Study in Apulia (Italy)

Abstract

The study focused on the effects of ecology (plant communities and topographical data) on composition of essential oils (EOs) of some officinal wild plant species (Lamiales): <i>Clinopodium suaveolens, Salvia fruticosa</i> subsp. <i>thomasii</i>, <i>Satureja montana</i> subsp. <i>montana,</i> and <i>Thymbra capitata</i>, in different environments of Apulia (Italy). <i>C. suaveolens</i> and <i>S. fruticosa</i> subsp. <i>thomasii</i> are rare species of conservation interest, while <i>S. montana</i> subsp. <i>montana</i> and <i>T. capitata</i>, have a wide distribution and are used in traditional medicine or as spices. Results showed that the ecological context (phytosociological and ecological features) may influence the composition of EOs of the studied species. High differences in the compound composition have been found in <i>S. montana</i> subsp. <i>montana</i>, whereas minor effects were observed in <i>C. suaveolens</i>, <i>S. fruticosa</i> subsp. <i>thomasii</i>, and <i>T. capitata</i> accessions. The understanding of such aspects is necessary for providing optimal conditions to produce EOs rich in compounds known for their biological activities. The results are of great interest also for EOs producers and at the same time to improve our knowledge and valorize wild officinal plants.