Mediterranean herbs, spices, and medicinal plants-Natural remedies and rich sources of bioactive compounds

The article reviews traditional Mediterranean herbs and spices frequently used in the Mediterranean cuisine, as well as wild medicinal plants most used as natural therapeutics among the people in the Mediterranean basin. Their high phytonutrient content and their diversity are highlighted. Bioactive compounds, such as allicin, apigenin, quercetin, kaemferol, rosmarinic acid, caffeic acid, luteolin, thymol, and others, are briefly described along with their therapeutical effects. The herbs, spices, and medicinal plants are vital constituents of the Mediterranean dietary pattern and lifestyle, known as the Mediterranean Diet (MD), and significantly contribute to the high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory character of the diet and its health and well-being benefits. The first Mediterranean herbal pyramid including the herbs, spices, and medicinal plants of the region is proposed.