Laminacae plants belong to the mint family of plants. These plants are characterised by their distinctive aroma and taste that results from their essential oils. The essential oils of Lamiaceae plants have been shown to possess significant antimicrobial effects against a range of pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms, including fungi. For example, in one study, researchers administered essential oil from a range of Lamiaceae plants to penicillium communes (penicillin mould) and observed the effects. The results of the study showed that thyme, red thyme, peppermint, mint, and savory inhibited the growth of penicillin during cultivation, whereas the inhibitory effects of basil, rosemary, and sage were less consistent. Of all the Lamiaceae plants tested, the most effective against penicillin communes was the red thyme and thyme essential oils. This supports the traditional medical use of these plants against the damaging effects of microorganisms, and suggests that the oils of the plant may protect the plant from pathogens.
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