Traditional uses, pharmacological properties, and industrial potential of Peruvian Andean aromatic plants: a narrative review

Abstract

Peru is a megadiverse country, home to a wide range of ecosystems shaped by geographic, climatic, and biological factors. Within the Andean region, aromatic plants have been used since ancient times as food ingredients, medicinal resources, and elements of traditional knowledge. This review synthesizes the available scientific evidence on three Peruvian Andean aromatic plants: muña (Minthostachys mollis), matico (Piper aduncum), and huacatay (Tagetes minuta), focusing on their traditional uses, nutritional composition, essential oil profiles, bioactive compounds, reported biological activities, and potential industrial applications. The literature indicates that these species contain bioactive compounds—including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, monoterpenes, and phenylpropanoids—that are primarily associated with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic, biocidal, and cardiometabolic activities. However, much of this evidence derives from in vitro, in vivo, or in silico studies rather than clinical research. These plants also show promising applications in food preservation, pharmaceutical formulations, cosmetics, and agricultural bioproducts. Altogether, muña, matico, and huacatay represent valuable Andean biocultural resources that support opportunities for sustainable agro-food development in Andean communities and contribute to broader scientific progress.