Ethnopharmacological review of MARZANJOSH (Origanum vulgare L.): An important Unani drug

ABSTRACTMarzanjosh is botanically known as Origanum vulgare L. belongs to the Lamiaceae family, is used in the Unani system of medicine for a long period.  It is an annual, perennial, and shrubby herb that is native to the Mediterranean, Euro-Siberian, and Irano-Siberian regions. The glandular trichomes secrete essential oils with a unique flavor, which is mainly due to its major compounds such as carvacrol and thymol. In Unani medicine, Origanum vulgare L. is used widely due to its versatile therapeutic properties like Muhallil-e-Awram (Anti-inflammatory), Mulattif (Demulscent), Jali (Detergent), Stimulant, Emmenagogue, Carminative. Recent studies performed with the use of Conventional methods also proved its efficacy. The present review highlights classical literature and medicinal properties as well as phytochemistry, taxonomical, botanical, pharmacological, Pharmacognostical discussion on Marzanjoosh and recent studies carried out on this plant. Keywords: Marzanjosh, Unani medicine, Origanum vulgare L.