In this study, three plant species, members of the family of Lamiaceae and the genus Origanum, namely,
Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum, Origanum onites L., and Origanum marjorana L. were studied for their
chemical composition and antibacterial activity. Essential oils of these plants were received by means of
micro-steam distillation and their components were analyzed by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry
(GCeEIMS). The major components identified in all three species are carvacrol and thymol. The
oils were assayed as potential food control antimicrobial agents. In vitro studies showed that the essential
oils showed strong antimicrobial activity against 5 bacterial and 1 yeast strains.