Abstract

Background: The genus Sideritis L.is mostly found in habitats dominated by the Mediterranean climate and is represented by approximately 150 taxa in the world. Turkey is among few countries where Sideritis includes about 52 species and the endemic rate of this genus goes up to almost 80%. Sideritis species are generally known as ‘sage or ironwood worth’ or as a tea plant is widely used in folk medicine in Turkey. There are important studies in the literature on Sideritis species due to their widespread use in ethnobotanical and related uses.
Materials and Methods: Plant samples were collected from their natural habitats, dried following the herbarium technique, and then identified and stored at the Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Adıyaman University with the number ÖK 6854. The essential oil was obtained from 100 g of plant samples by the water distillation method. Essential oil composition was determined by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS).
Results: It was found that the studied plant is rich in essential oil with 0.4 ml oil content in the sample. Forty components were determined from the essential oil of the plant and the main components were found as carvacrol (33.26%), β-caryophyllene (12.5%), α-pinene (7.32%), and β-pinene (6.13%). The results were discussed in terms of natural products, renewable resources, usage areas, and culture of Sideritis taxa.
Conclusions: With this study, the economic values of the members of the genus were emphasized by referring to the characteristics of Sideritis members such as aromatherapeutic, phytotherapy, ethnobotanical, and biological activity. In order to better evaluate the S. rubriflora plant and to continue the activities related to this endemic plant of high economic value more efficiently, basic data were obtained and it was tried to contribute to the sector. It is important to take the necessary precautions and show the necessary sensitivity in order to protect and conserve Sideritis members, especially S. rubriflora. In this way, Sideritis members and S. rubriflora will have the opportunity to continue their existence and spread more in nature. This will easily make available sufficient raw materials for the sectors they are used.

Keywords: Sideritis, Sideritis rubriflora, Lamiaceae, Essential oil