Karpooravalli in English
- English name of Karpooravalli is “Indian Borage” or “Mexican Mint” or “Oregano”.
Karpooravalli in Hindi
- Hindi name of Karpooravalli is “Pathar Choor”.
Karpooravalli in Malayalam
- Malayalam name of Karpooravalli is “Panikoorka”.
What is Karpuravalli/Karpooravalli?
Karpuravalli, also known as Karpooravalli, is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family, native to Southern and Eastern Africa, Madagascar, and the Indian Ocean islands. It is scientifically known as Plectranthus amboinicus. The English name of Karpooravalli is Indian borage or Mexican mint. It is revered for its culinary, medicinal, and ornamental properties.
In terms of appearance, Karpuravalli typically grows as a succulent herb with thick, fleshy leaves that are broad, ovate, and serrated along the edges. The leaves are often aromatic, emitting a strong fragrance that is a blend of mint and camphor, hence its name “Karpuravalli,” derived from the Tamil words for camphor (karpuram) and leaf (avalli).
Culturally, Karpuravalli holds significant importance in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and Siddha, where it is utilized for its diverse medicinal properties. The leaves contain essential oils, flavonoids, phenols, and other bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties. In traditional medicine, Karpuravalli is used to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, asthma, digestive issues, skin conditions, and even as a natural insect repellent.
In culinary applications, Karpuravalli is valued for its aromatic flavor and is used as a culinary herb in many cuisines, including Indian, Southeast Asian, and Caribbean cuisines. The leaves can be added fresh or dried to soups, stews, curries, salads, and marinades, imparting a unique flavor and aroma to dishes.
Moreover, Karpuravalli is also grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and ease of cultivation. It is often grown in gardens, pots, or hanging baskets, where its lush green leaves and aromatic scent add aesthetic value to the surroundings.
Karpuravalli Benefits
Karpuravalli, also known as Indian borage, offers numerous health benefits.
- Rich in essential oils: Karpuravalli contains essential oils with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Respiratory health: It is used to alleviate symptoms of coughs, colds, and asthma due to its expectorant properties.
- Digestive aid: Karpuravalli can help with digestive issues like indigestion and flatulence.
- Skin care: Its antiseptic properties make it useful for treating skin conditions such as eczema and acne.
- Oral health: Chewing Karpuravalli leaves can help combat bad breath and maintain oral hygiene.
- Natural insect repellent: The aroma of Karpuravalli acts as a natural insect repellent.
- Culinary uses: Karpuravalli adds flavor and aroma to dishes, while also providing potential digestive benefits.
- Stress relief: Inhaling the fragrance of Karpuravalli leaves may have relaxing and stress-relieving effects.
- Aids in wound healing: Applied topically, Karpuravalli can help disinfect wounds and promote healing.
- Antioxidant support: Helps neutralize free radicals and may contribute to overall health and well-being.
