The Uly Balkan Mountains, located in north-western Turkmenistan, represent one of the most unique botanical regions of the country. Despite being surrounded by desert landscapes, this mountain system hosts rich plant biodiversity, including more than 550 plant species. Among them, nearly 100 species belong to essential oil–bearing and medicinal plants, making the region highly important for phytochemical research and sustainable use of natural resources.
Essential oil plants of the Uly Balkan Mountains grow across different altitude zones and include trees, shrubs, semi-shrubs, and perennial and annual herbaceous species. These plants contain biologically active compounds and essential oils that are widely used in traditional and scientific medicine, perfumery, food production, and as technical raw materials.
One of the key species is Turkmen juniper (Juniperus turcomanica), an endemic plant forming the upper vegetation layer of the mountain ecosystem. It grows on rocky slopes and ridges and contains valuable essential oils with medicinal properties. Due to slow growth and sensitivity to environmental conditions, this species has been included in the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan to ensure the protection of its genetic resources.
Another widely distributed endemic species is Balkan wormwood (Artemisia balchanorum), a semi-shrub rich in essential oils with a distinctive lemon aroma. It is considered an important raw material for the food, confectionery, and perfume industries. Its essential oils are also used to flavor non-alcoholic beverages and produce aromatic compositions.
Fragrant perovskia (Perovskia abrotanoides) is another valuable essential oil plant found in the Uly Balkan region. It is known for its medicinal properties, including antibacterial activity, wound healing effects, and cardiovascular benefits. The plant contains a complex mixture of essential oils, flavonoids, saponins, and other bioactive compounds, making it suitable for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications.
The region is also home to Turkmen stachys (Stachys turcomanica), a perennial medicinal plant traditionally used in folk medicine for cardiovascular disorders and wound treatment. Its essential oils are actively used in perfumery, while the plant itself is valued as both a medicinal and ornamental species.
Despite the rich natural potential of the Uly Balkan Mountains, climate aridity, grazing, road construction, and uncontrolled harvesting negatively affect plant populations. Scientific studies emphasize the need for conservation, sustainable harvesting, and cultivation of essential oil plants to preserve biodiversity and ensure their long-term economic value.
The essential oil and medicinal plants of the Uly Balkan Mountains represent an important natural heritage of Turkmenistan, combining ecological significance with high potential for pharmaceutical, food, and perfume industries.
