ABSTRACT:Staphylococcus aureus is a classical pathogen microorganism and it is commonly recognized as etiological agent of many community and nosocomial infections. Regarding the knowledge about the biological properties of Lippia sidoides Cham. (Verbenaceae), this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of its essential oil in inhibiting the growth of S. aureus strains isolated from clinical materials and with different profi les of antibiotic resistance. The results showed prominent anti-S. aureus activity of L. sidoides essential oil noted by large growth inhibition zones (15-21 mm). MIC found was of 0.4 L/mL for all assayed strains. MIC presented prominent effectiveness in inhibiting the viability of S. aureus in broth during twenty-four hours of exposure characterizing a bacteriostatic effect. These results show the promising anti-staphylococcal property of L. sidoides essential oil and support the possibility of its rational use as alternative antibacterial agent.