Monarda citriodora (Jammu Monarda) is one of the essential oil yielding herbaceous plant. The plant was introduced in India by Scientists of CSIR-IIIM, Jammu during 1999 from Europe. Detailed chemical examination confirmed it to be a new source of thymol which otherwise is obtained from Ajowain (Trachyspermum amme). The chemical constituents of the essential oil are Thymol (62-70%), Carvacrol (2-6%), p-cymene (12-20%), -terpinene (14-20%). The oil is likely to have medicinal activity and suitable for perfumery and flavouring of food industry etc. The essential oil and Thymol are having anti-bacterial properties.

Cost of cultivation : Rs. 50,000/ha

Gross return : Rs. 2,00,000/ha

Net profit : Rs. 1,50,000/ha