SOME ASPECTS OF THE INTRODUCTION OF ELSHOLTZIA STAUNTONII BENTH. IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA

Maricica COLȚUN, Alina BOGDAN “Alexandru Ciubotaru” National Botanical Garden (Institute)

Abstract

This article presents the results of a study on the species Elsholtzia stauntonii Benth., an aromatic and medicinal plant, introduced and little investigated, but valuable from an economic point of view. The research aimed at the evaluation and characterization of this species from a botanical, phytochemical and agrotechnical point of view, in order to determine the biomorphological features, the composition and content of essential oil, as well as the primary elements of cultivation, respectively. The essential oil has antibacterial, antiviral, astringent, carminative, diuretic and somatic action. Its subtle aroma, is similar to the balsamic smell of lemon, which determines the value of using elsholtzia. It has high potential as an ornamental and melliferous plant. The research highlighted the high adaptive potential and the prospects of cultivation under the new climate and soil conditions, contributing to the widening of the assortment of aromatic and medicinal plants, which could constitute a source of raw material for aromatherapy, perfumery, phytotherapy and gastronomy. Keywords: plant, essential oil, components, chromatography, aromatherapy, properties.