Panikoorka or Njavara the Malayalam name.
English names are Indian borage, country borage, Indian mint, African mint, French Thyme, Spanish Thyme, Cuban oregano.
Scientific name is Coleus amboinicus.
Belongs to Lamiaceae family.
Genus is Coleus.
Propagation is by stem cuttings and seeds.
It is a tropical and subtropical plant.
A fast growing plant both outdoors and indoors.
The plant prefers well drained soil and semi shaded areas.
It is used for culinary purposes in other countries.
In India and especially in Kerala it is widely using as a home remedy for fever, cold, cough, sore throat, digestive problems and ulcers. It is the grandmas secret tips handing over to the next generations.
It is having medicinal values and enhances immunity.
Carvacrol & thymol are the main plant chemicals in it.
The plain or sautéed juice of the leaves and stems is the home medicine. Sautéed leaves can be put on the crown of the babies to get relief from fever and cold.
The leaves can be boiled in drinking water and tea.
The leaves can be added in boiling rasam and moru curry while cooking.
The leaves can be dipped in gram flour batter and deep fry to cook crispy pakoras.
And it is upto you to explore more 🙏
