Authentication of “Ostokhodus” Medicinal Plants in Iranian Herbal Markets Using Integrative Morphological and Phytochemical Approaches

Researchers supported by the Iran National Science Foundation (INSF) have conducted a detailed investigation into the authenticity of medicinal plants sold under the traditional name “Ostokhodus” in Iranian herbal markets and commercial products. The study was carried out as an INSF-funded PhD research grant, with Dr. Atefeh Babaei serving as the principal investigator under the supervision of Prof. Shahrokh Kazempour Osaloo at Tarbiat Modares University.

The study analyzed multiple market samples using an integrated approach combining morphological examination, microscopic (trichome and calyx structure) assessment, and chemical profiling through GC–MS and GC-FID. In total, nine raw herbal samples and seven commercial products were examined.

Findings showed that the name “Ostokhodus” is not limited to a single plant species in practice. While several samples were correctly linked to Lavandula species—identified by characteristic floral structures and high levels of compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate—others were found to belong to entirely different genera. These included Nepeta, Stachys lavandulifolia, and Ziziphora tenuior, each confirmed through distinct morphological traits and chemical signatures such as nepetalactone isomers in Nepeta species.

The results highlight significant issues of misidentification and substitution in herbal markets, especially when plants are sold in dried or processed forms where visual identification becomes difficult. The study emphasizes that relying on a single method is insufficient for accurate plant identification.

Overall, the research demonstrates that combining morphological, microscopic, and phytochemical techniques provides a more reliable framework for authenticating medicinal plants. This integrated approach is important for improving quality control, ensuring consumer safety, and supporting standardization in herbal medicine markets.