Is peperina (Minthostachys verticillata) exclusively found in South America?

Abstract

Medicinal plants are used since prehistoric times all around the world, particularly among native people of South America. In the present work several scientific studies are quoted that described the use of Minthostachy verticillata, or M. mollis (Lamiaceae) commonly referred to as “peperina”, a medicinal native plant, with various uses and properties, considered for many native to Argentina Northeast. Same common names can be used in different places for diverse plants, then we consider that it is not rare the appearance of misunderstanding, using the common name “peperina” meaning different plants. For that reason, the question stated at the title of this article: Is peperina (Minthostachys verticillata) exclusively found in South America?” remains without a proper and unambiguous answer worldwide.