A Systematic Approach to <i>Agastache mexicana</i> Research: Biology, Agronomy, Phytochemistry, and Bioactivity

• Main Authors: Mariana Palma-Tenango, Rosa E. Sánchez-Fernández, Marcos Soto-Hernández
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2021-06-01
• Series: Molecules
• Subjects: toronjil; Mexican agastache; aromatic plants
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/26/12/3751

Mexico is the center of origin of the species popularly known as toronjil or lemon balm (<i>Agastache mexicana</i> Linton & Epling). Two subspecies have been identified and are commonly called purple or red (<i>Agastache mexicana</i> Linton & Epling subspecies. mexicana) and white (<i>Agastache mexicana</i> subspecies xolocotziana Bye, E.L. Linares & Ramamoorthy). Plants from these subspecies differ in the size and form of inflorescence and leaves. They also possess differences in their chemical compositions, including volatile compounds. Traditional Mexican medicine employs both subspecies. <i>A. mexicana</i> exhibits a broad range of pharmacological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, anxiolytic, and antioxidant. A systematic vision of these plant’s properties is discussed in this review, exposing its significant potential as a source of valuable bioactive compounds. Furthermore, this review provides an understanding of the elements that make up the species’ holistic system to benefit from lemon balm sustainably.