This family which used to be known as the Labiateae comprises about 180 genera and 3500 species. Although the family has a worldwide distribution, major areas of origin are the Mediterranean region and the Far East. The agricultural importance of the family is related to the fragrant essential oil content of the foliage of many of its members which are used for flavouring of food as herbs, in the pharmaceutical industry, and in the production of perfumes.

Commercial members of the family include basil, lavender, marjoram, the mints, oregano, rosemary, sage, savory and thyme. In general, the commercial product is fresh or dried plant leaf. However, leaves and flowers are also distilled to extract essential oils. There are also a number of temperate weed species which are derived from the family.

Both annual and perennial forms exist. Plant structure varies from herbs to shrubs to trees. Stems are square in section, leaves are opposite or whorled and simple, without stipules. Flowers are axillary or whorled and are usually hermaphroditic. They are zygomorphic with a calyx of five fused sepals and a two-lipped corolla comprising five fused petals. There are two or four stamens. When four stamens are present, the pairs may be of different lengths. The stamens are attached to the petals. The gynoecium is a compound pistil made up of two carpels which appear to comprise four locules. The ovary is superior and the stigma is divided into two at its end.