This study systematically reviews essential oil (EO) profiles of Lippia turbinata (Verbenaceae) populations from Argentina. A meta-analysis reveals significant chemical variability and distinct chemotypes, primarily defined by limonene, carvone, β-caryophyllene, and caryophyllene oxide. Insights may guide optimized uses of these EOs in food, pharmacology, and agroindustry.

Lippia turbinata (Verbenaceae), “poleo,” is an aromatic shrub native to Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay. Traditionally used as food and medicine, it exhibits a great polymorphism and essential oil (EO) variability. This study analyzes the EO profile of the different populations of L. turbinata distributed throughout Argentina through a meta-analysis comparing their chemical composition of EOs reported in the literature. The meta-analysis comparison with available literature suggests the existence of chemotypes within the species that may correlate with infraspecific genetic differences, geographical origin of the plants, phenological stage, soil, and stress conditions, among other factors. This analysis reveals that the most frequent and abundant compounds are limonene, carvone, β-caryophyllene, and its derivative oxide. This approach of multivariate statistical analyses enables to compare EO profiles of different populations and identify critical thresholds for selecting chemotypes to optimize the species’ applications in the food, pharmacology, and agriculture industries.