Applications of aromatic plants and volatile oils extracted from them include

1. direct culinary use: as fresh or dried herbs, spices and condiments;
2. perfumery, cosmetics and household and personal hygiene products either directly as major or minor ingredients or as raw materials for the extraction and/or synthesis of specific aroma chemicals;
3. food, drink and confectionery: as flavouring agents;
4. human and veterinary medicine: as components of pharmaceutical preparations;
5. crop protection: as pesticides and insect repellents;
6. antibacterial and antifungal agents in a range of situations.

Furthermore, the requirements of essential oils for use in aromatherapy are increasing, creating a demand for organically produced exotic oils.