Medicinal and Aromatic Lamiaceae in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region: research gaps, diversity, distribution, and conservation implications

The Lamiaceae family is one of the most important groups of medicinal and aromatic plants in Morocco, particularly in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceïma (TTA) region, where it holds ecological, pharmacological, and cultural significance. However, knowledge of species distribution, traditional uses, bioactive composition, and vulnerability remains limited. This study aimed to document Lamiaceae diversity and uses in TTA, assess phytochemical profiles, and evaluate ecological pressures and research gaps. A comprehensive literature review was conducted using the Scopus database. Studies were included if they reported ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical composition, or ecological status; non-regional or secondary-only reports were excluded. Data were synthesized into species lists, essential oil profiles, and documented bioactivities. Species vulnerability was assessed using spatial distribution mapping and the Cumulative Effect Index (CEI). We identified 40 species most commonly used as medicinal and aromatic plants, belonging to 16 genera, dominated by Thymus , Salvia , and Origanum . Traditional uses mainly targeted respiratory, digestive, and dermatological ailments, with infusions and decoctions most common. Essential oil analyses from 13 species revealed 59 compounds, with carvacrol, thymol, γ-terpinene, and p-cymene as dominant. Antioxidant activity was reported in 24 species, antimicrobial and antidiabetic effects in 16 each, and anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities in 15 and 14 species, respectively. CEI values ranged from 0.18 to 1.04, with Salvia barrelieri Etlinger. most vulnerable. Clustering revealed three ecological vulnerability groups. Lamiaceae in TTA represent a rich but fragile ethnopharmacological heritage. Their phytochemical diversity reflects Mediterranean patterns, but increasing ecological pressures demand urgent ethnobotanical documentation, conservation, and sustainable management. • The TTA region hosts high medicinal and aromatic diversity within the Lamiaceae family. • Traditional uses target digestive, respiratory, and dermatological disorders. • Carvacrol, thymol, γ-terpinene, and p-cymene were the dominant essential-oil constituents. • Research focuses on phytochemistry and bioactivity, but major knowledge gaps remain. • Urgent conservation needed for vulnerable Lamiaceae under ecological pressure in TTA.