Thymus saturejoides between traditional use and scientific confirmation

Thymus saturejoides Cosson, is a Moroccan endemic species. It is frequently used to treat several diseases, such as gastroenteritis, respiratory infections, cardiovascular problems, diabetes, menstrual pain, and headaches. To evaluate these traditional uses, this study aimed to summarize the different uses of Thymus saturejoides across Moroccan regions and compare them with the biological activities of the main phytochemicals. Data were collected from; Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. Wider medicinal uses were reported in rural areas compared to urban zones, especially in the High-Atlas and Sous regions. The most frequently cited uses were for digestive disorders, respiratory infections, and cold-related illnesses. On the other hand, Borneol, Carvacrol, Thymol, Camphene, and α-Terpineol are the five main phytochemicals contained in the essential oil of this species. Published studies testing the medicinal effects of this species in vivo have shown a very high degree of agreement with Moroccan traditional uses. Therefore, further scientific studies are recommended to develop a modern use of T. saturejoides, to conserve and valorize this endemic plant.