Organic Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Consumption Profile of a Portuguese Consumer Sample

Abstract

The production and consumption of organic products have been increasing in Portugal, as well as in the European Union as a whole. The main objective of this work is to understand the consumption habits of organic medicinal and aromatic plants (OMAPs) among Portuguese adults. An online questionnaire was distributed using social networks, resulting in the collection and statistical analysis of 300 responses. Of the participants who reported consuming OMAPs, 44.3% showed a daily consumption pattern. The most frequently mentioned OMAPs for fresh consumption were parsley (Petrosselinum crispum L., 92%), garlic (Allium sativum L., 84.1%), and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L., 78.1%). The most commonly mentioned OMAP for consumption as dried plants were oregano (Origanum vulgare L., 74.6%), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L., 49.2%), and lemon verbena (Aloysia citrodora L., 46.8%). The main reasons cited for using OMAPs were their benefits to health (58.7% of participants), benefits to the environment (33.2%), and reduced salt consumption (29.5%). Among these, the main health benefits mentioned included anti-inflammatory properties (45.0%), prevention of cardiovascular diseases (41.6%), and prevention of high cholesterol (39.9%). Furthermore, 82.5% of respondents considered themselves sufficiently, well, or excellently informed about the nutritional properties of OMAPs. This research initiates a discussion about whether profiling OMAP consumption habits can serve as a valuable tool for promoting organic farming in Portugal, increasing OMAP production and consumption, and strengthening the connection between these products and potential positive human health effects.