Accumulation of secondary metabolites in the family Lamiaceae as influenced by foliar micronutrients

Abstract

The Lamiaceae family is rich in secondary metabolites, such as essential oils comprising flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. Micronutrients play a crucial role in plant metabolism and secondary metabolites production. This review summarizes and emphasizes the significance of foliar
micronutrient nutrition in facilitating the accumulation of secondary metabolites in the Lamiaceae family, based on research literature from 2010 to 2023 using dependable databases like Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct. Spraying micronutrients notably enhanced the biosynthesis of various
secondary metabolites in Lamiaceae species, especially for nutrients that do not move easily (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, B, and Si). Using nano-micronutrients as foliar application on Lamiaceae medicinal plants was more effective than traditional soil treatment. This review highlighted the importance of additional
investigation on Cerium, Titanium, and Boron. Genera such as Lavandula, Satureja, Origanum, Lippia, and Hyssopus require more research in the future.