Type of plant: A perennial herb growing to 3 feet high with branches growing vertically, small, long, slim leaves, and dense spikes of small whitish-purple flowers

Part used: Plant including flowers

Method of extraction: Steam distillation

Data: Also known as mountain savory, the plant grows well in hilly and mountainous terrain, growing on rocky soil and even between the stones of walls. Used as a culinary herb throughout the Mediterranean.

Principal places of production: Albania, Croatia, Turkey, Spain, Morocco, Russia

When buying look for: A pale-yellow liquid with a strong herbaceous, medicinal-type aroma

Therapeutic properties: Anthelmintic, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-infectious, antiparasitic, antiviral, immunostimulant, tonic

Therapeutic uses: Viral infection, respiratory infection, bronchitis, rheumatism, skeletal aches and pains, muscular pain, digestive problems, wounds, abscesses

Blends well with: Basil linalol, bergamot, chamomile german, chamomile roman, eucalyptus peppermint, eucalyptus radiata, ho wood, lavandin, lavender, lemon, niaouli, oregano, palmarosa, peppermint, sage (Greek), spearmint, thyme linalol, turmeric, valerian, yarrow

Precautionary advice: Can cause skin irritation; a skin patch test is advisable. Avoid during pregnancy and while breast-feeding. Best avoided if using multiple medications. GRAS status.