Herbya

Herbya is a small genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Lamiaceae. The genus was first described in the early 20th century based on specimens collected from the Mediterranean region. Currently, it includes two well‑accepted species: Herbya melitensis and Herbya italica. Both species are characterized by aromatic, opposite leaves and small, tubular white or pale purple flowers that are arranged in dense cymes. The stems are typically square in cross‑section, a common feature in the mint family, and the plants grow as herbaceous perennials or shrubs reaching up to 1.5 meters in height.

These plants are predominantly found in Mediterranean climates, with distribution spanning Spain, Italy, Greece, Malta and nearby islands. They prefer well‑drained, calcareous soils and are often located in scrublands, open woodlands, or rocky slopes. The flowering period typically occurs from late spring to early summer, during which pollination is primarily mediated by bees and other visiting insects. Herbya species produce small, oil‑filled seeds that are dispersed by wind or water.

While the genus is not widely cultivated, traditional uses have been reported in some local communities for their medicinal properties. Some reports note the use of crushed leaves as a mild antiseptic or for treating minor skin irritations. However, scientific investigations into their phytochemical composition remain limited. Taxonomically, Herbya is closely related to other genera in the tribe Mentheae, with molecular phylogenetic studies supporting its distinct placement within the larger Lamiaceae family.