A Comprehensive Review on the Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Potential of Lavandula mairei Humbert: An Endemic Moroccan Species

Abstract

Lavandula mairei Humbert is an endemic Moroccan plant traditionally used for its medicinal properties. Recent scientific inquiry has begun to validate its ethnobotanical uses and uncover novel applications. This review provides the first comprehensive synthesis of current research on L. mairei. This review aims to collect, analyze, and critically evaluate the available scientific literature on the traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and non-medicinal applications of Lavandula mairei. Furthermore, it seeks to identify existing research gaps and propose future directions for its sustainable exploitation. The search was conducted utilizing major electronic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. The literature search was designed to be inclusive of all studies citing "Lavandula mairei". The taxonomic nomenclature and status of the species were confirmed and validated using authoritative online databases, specifically World Flora Online (WFO) and Plants of the World Online (POWO). The essential oil of L. mairei is notably rich in bioactive monoterpenes including carvacrol, 1,8-cineole, and camphor, while its polar solvent extracts are abundant in phenolic compounds such as flavonoids and tannins. Validating traditional uses, scientific studies confirm potent antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and insecticidal activities. It also exhibits unique anti-biofilm properties. Notably, its applications extend to green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and eco-friendly corrosion inhibition, demonstrating remarkable versatility beyond medicine. This review synthesizes current research revealing the significant pharmacological potential and novel bioindustrial applications of L. mairei; however, clinical trials, toxicity studies, and sustainable cultivation methods remain essential.