Diversity of oil plant resources in the Central Highlands region and antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory activities of essential oils of Magnolia citrata Noot. & Chalermglin and Hedyosmum orientale Merr. & Chun.

Abstract

The Central Highlands (Tay Nguyen) possesses suitable resources for the cultivation of valuable industrial plants. The region also enjoys favourable conditions, which are highland topography, sub-tropical climate, and abundant flora, for the flourishment of essential oil resources. The authors conducted surveys and assessments in five provinces: Lam Dong, Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, and Dak Nong. As a result, there were 248 plants with sufficient essential oil contents were identified. Besides, the authors also conducted research on the contents, chemical compositions, bioactivities, and recognised several species with considerable potentials for pharmaceutical use, due to their high concentration and quality of oils such as some in the genera Gaultheria, Magnolia, etc..