mexican mint indoor plant Mexican Mint Cuban Oregano Indian Borage

Indian borage, which is also known by other names such as Mexican Mint, Spanish thyme, Country borage, Coleus amboinicus, Karpooravalli mint, Cuban oregano, French thyme, Orégano francés, Pudina, Soup mint, Oregano brujo, Thick leaf thyme or broad leaf thyme

Perfect for brewing tea in the evening/night. The leaves are strongly flavoured and are used for stuffings of beef, lamb and poultry, in grills/ kebabs, BBQ, soups, stews etc. Although it is native to parts of southern and eastern Africa, the demand for this beneficial herb has caused cultivation to spread to other tropical areas around the world with suitable growing conditions. The plant, whose scientific name is Plectranthus amboinicus, is very hardy and grows quickly, requires little water, and can even grow in colder conditions if the weather changes dramatically.

The plant can be grown indoors here in the UK and very easy to propagate, so you can pick a leaf almost everyday to brew tea. We used to drink the tea made from this plant almost every day since the pandemic and we've always felt a difference.


Health benefits of Indian borage:
-Cures respiratory illness
When you catch a cold; sore throat, congestion, runny nose just seems to stay beside. We depend on various natural remedies, and one such remedy is Mexican mint. The Indians and the Caribbeans knew the potential of this herb to treat respiratory disorders, long ago. The leaves of Indian borage also have a bronchodilator property that helps to oust phlegm and mucus. You can use the leaves to make aromatic tea or chew the leaves with honey for better results. The essential oil prepared from leaf extracts helps to control and treat asthma. The reason why this plant helps to ease respiratory disorders is due to the presence of compounds such as Carvacrol and thymol. Both these compounds are natural expectorants. Indian borage leaf juice taken orally helps to ease symptoms of flu as well as the common cold. It also helps to fight infections and boost immune functions.

-Natural skincare
Mexican mint is an excellent herb to include when it comes to skincare routines. Indian borage helps to treat a wide range of skin problems effectively. It is an excellent remedy for skin allergies and ulcerations. The juice of the leaves helps to treat skin conditions such as eczema and itching. The paste of the leaves after heating, when applied to cuts and wounds helps in swift healing. Indian borage has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that make it an excellent natural remedy for wounds and cuts. You can also use the herb to treat swelling, redness, and irritation in the skin.

-Haircare
The essential oil of Indian borage helps to prevent the growth of dandruff-causing fungus. You can prepare the mix by simply heating a few leaves in coconut oil or any other base oil. Apply thoroughly on the scalp and use a mild shampoo to wash it away. Using this remedy helps to keep your scalp tidy and free from dandruff.

-Growth and development
Indian borage contains essential fatty acids such as Omega-6 that help to ease conditions such as arthritis. It helps to reduce cardiovascular diseases and regulates cholesterol levels in the body. Mexican mint also contains essential vitamins and minerals that help in normal growth and development of the body. This herb is a natural immune booster and the best health supplement that you can grow in your backyard.

-An effective cure for digestive disorders
Indian borage is an age-old remedy to treat dyspepsia, indigestion and diarrhoea. This is a popular carminative in India and Africa. The juice extract of the leaves helps to promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut. It also helps to kill unwanted microbes and bacteria that harm the digestive process. The leaves are taken along with buttermilk or yoghurt to treat diarrhoea caused by pathogens. This herb can maintain microbial gut balance and prevent infections. On the contrary, it is also an effective cure for constipation, in certain parts of Indonesia and Malaysia.

-Natural remedy for wound healing
Mexican mint helps in swift wound healing as it helps to reduce the risk of infection. It helps to stimulate the immune system and reduces the wound area considerably. The root and leaf paste is the best remedy to treat wounds as it lowers the epithelialization phase. It is also a highly preferred remedy to treat wounds in diabetic patients as it helps to reduce blood sugar levels.

-Natural remedy to increase lactation
Indian borage exhibits lactogenic activity so it is a common remedy across Indonesia since ages. People there consume this herb as a traditional food in soups and other cuisines. Consuming this herb stimulates lactation after childbirth. They follow this traditional remedy, as they believe that it helps to increase the production of breast milk. Mexican mint contains a load of nutrients such as iron and carotene. It also has essential minerals that are important for the body. Therefore, mothers who consume this herb will directly help their infants to gain weight and health naturally.

-Oral Diseases
Mexican mint offers anti-bacterial properties and due to that, it delivers as an excellent remedy for oral care. It has a strong smell and flavour. The presence of Carvacrol makes it an exceptional choice for sustaining oral health. Carvacrol is a phenol that functions as a bacterial growth inhibitor. You can add this herb to your mouthwash or prepare a natural DIY mouthwash to prevent oral cavities. This herb helps to check bad odour and hinders bacterial growth in the oral cavity.

-Great for Cardiovascular Health
The Caribbeans use this herb to tackle congestive heart failure. Recent studies have also shown the effectiveness of this herb when it comes to cardiovascular health. It also helps to lower blood pressure and decrease cholesterol levels.

-Natural remedy for urinary disorders
The extract taken from the leaves helps to fight kidney stones, treat vaginal discharges and reduce infections. Therefore it helps in the smooth functioning of the kidneys and is a common remedy used in India.

-Helps to reduce stress
Indian borage helps to boost the immune system. It also helps to lower blood sugar levels and to reduce cholesterol levels. It also contains essential minerals and vitamins that promote wellness. Consuming Mexican mint tea helps to reduce oxidative damage and provide relief from anxiety issues. Indian borage also shows anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti–tumorigenic and anti-inflammatory properties.