In Ayurveda, the art of using plants for various purposes is well-documented. The presence of certain phytochemicals in plants is what gives them their medicinal qualities. Plectranthus amboinicus, one of the many therapeutic plants used in Ayurveda, is renowned for its anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, and anti-epileptic qualities. Its leaves have a sour flavor and a nice odor, and it is also used as a herbal diuretic. It is a frequently used Ayurvedic herb and is often referred to as Parnayavani or Indian mint.

Categorization

Kingdom: Plantae

Family: Lamiaceae

Other Names

Common Name: Indian Borage, Indian Mint, Country Borage 

Hindi Name: Patta ajwayin

Botanical Name: Plectranthus amboinicus

Synonyms: Sugandha, Ashmari Bheda, Himsagar, Chornika, Karpooravalli, Parnika.

Morphology

Indian Borage is a low-growing plant that can reach a height of one to two feet. Its stem is brittle and naturally fleshy. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, thick, meaty, and have a hair-like structure. They also have a pungent odor. It is grown in temperate climates in India and has tiny, purple flowers.

Medicinal Properties

	Hindi / Sanskrit	English
Rasa (Taste)	Katu, Tikta	Pungent, Bitter
Guna (Action)	Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshana	Light, Dry, Strong
Virya (Potency)	Ushna	Hot
Vipaka (Post-Digestive Taste)	Katu	Pungent

Effect on dosha

Balances Kapha and Vata dosha.

Chemical Constituents

Carvacrol and camphor are the main components of Plectoranthus amboinicus leaves. Flavonoids, oxaloacetic acid, beta-sitosterol, cirsimaritin, and other substances are also present in leaves. Thymol is an essential oil found in other plant sections.

Health Benefits

Respiratory Problems

Due to the presence of chemicals that serve as strong expectorants and help clear mucus and phlegm from the respiratory tracts, this plant is extremely helpful in the treatment of sore throat, congestion, sinusitis, and other conditions. Its anti-microbial properties stop bacteria and other diseases from settling in and growing in the tracts. Additionally, it strengthens the immune system.

Arthritis

Plectoranthus amboinicus leaves have volatile chemicals such gamma-linolenic acid, which are high in Omega-6 fatty acids. By halting joint deterioration, gamma-linolenic acid is known to lessen arthritis. Patients with osteoporosis or athletes whose bones and joints are frequently under stress may find this herb to be helpful.

Increases Immunity

This herb strengthens the immune system because of the high levels of Vitamin C it contains. Its vitamin A and carotenoids enhance vision, lessen oxidative stress, and shield against macular degeneration.

Improves Kidney Health

This herb's diuretic properties make it effective at eliminating body toxins and promoting urination. Additionally, it eliminates extra water, salt, and fat from the body. As a result, it maintains healthy lymphatic and renal function.

Skin Care

Indian Borage has the best effects on the skin since it contains anti-inflammatory ingredients. As a result, it swiftly takes care of the itchiness, irritation, and redness.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

This herb has been utilized for treating stomach distress since ancient times. It is a helpful herb for Irritable Bowel Syndrome treatment because it reduces stomach inflammation and enhances digestion.

Simple Way to Use Indian Borage at Home

• 10 ml of the fresh leaf juice of Indian borage should be administered together with hot water to treat intestinal worms.
• Fresh leaf juice mixed with ginger juice is used to relieve dyspepsia and increase appetite. It is very helpful for gastrointestinal issues and abnormalities of the digestive system.
• To cure headaches, apply a paste made from Indian borage leaf leaves on the head.
• The juice from the leaves is applied to the orbit in cases of eye inflammation such conjunctivitis to ease pain.
• Children who have asthma, a persistent cough, etc. are given leaf juice combined with sugar for respiratory issues. To treat rhinitis, cough, etc., 5–6 cc of the crushed leaves' juice is administered with honey.
• The juice is administered along with a Kutaja (Holarrhena antidysentrica) decoction for indigestion and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
• Crush the leaves of this plant, combine them with coconut oil, and apply to the bitten area for insect bites.
• Two tablespoons of the Indian borage leaf juice should be taken twice daily if you have a fever.

Adverse Effects

• Although there are no documented negative effects, some people experience tongue burning after consuming its juice.
• Herbs should ideally be used under medical guidance.

Part Used

Leaves

Dosage

It is advised to consume 5–10 cc of juice internally.