VARIABILITY OF ESSENTIAL OIL AND THUJONE CONTENTS IN SAGE ECOTYPES

Sage (Salvia officinalis L.) is originated from Europe with high concentration in the Mediterranean area. Many ecotypes are recognized in western and north western parts of Albania. From the standpoint of active principles content the ecotypes of north western Albania have the highest value. This study reflects the variability of active principles content (thujone and essential oil) in ecotypes of north western Albania in its natural habitats as well as under cultivation. There are significant differences of thujone and essential oil between country ecotypes and foreign cultivars.