The use of aromatic plants has been practised since ancient times as is evidenced by records of Chinese, Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Greek and Roman origin; recent findings in Pakistan prove that it goes as far back as 5000 years. Accordingly, the importance and value ascribed to them were always high. Either as a medicine, a foodstuff, a seasoning, a cosmetic or an element of religious rituals the aromatic plant was indispensable. It is not to be forgotten that desire tor the riches of India - spices among which - and the struggle to monopolize the trade of the latter con tributed to the opening...