In the heart of our gardens, amidst the monsoon showers, lies a treasure—a humble herb with extraordinary powers. Meet Karpuravalli, also known as Indian Borage. Its leaves, fleshy and aromatic, emit an oregano-like fragrance, captivating our senses. But there’s more to this unassuming herb that meets the eye.
As the rainy season approaches, the increased humidity and dampness often bring a rise in respiratory ailments like cough, cold and bronchitis. Karpuravalli, known for its strong aroma and medicinal properties, offers a simple and effective way to boost our respiratory health during the wet months.
Let's delve into its rich history , benefits and traditional uses.
Karpuravalli: The Herb of Many Names
Botanical Name: Plectranthus Amboinicus
Common Names:
English: Indian Borage, Mexican Mint, Indian Mint, Mexican Oregano, Spanish Thyme
Hindi: Patharchur, Patta Ajwain
Malayalam: Panikoorka
Kannada: Sambarballi, Doddapatre
Telugu: Vamu Aaku
Traditional Uses and Medicinal Magic
Cold and Cough Remedy:
Karpuravalli is our first line of defense against colds and coughs.
Its soothing properties ease respiratory discomfort in infants, babies, and adults.
Fever management:
Traditionally used for treating fevers, especially malaria fever.
A warm cup of Karpuravalli rasam provides comfort during monsoons.
Asthma relief:
Karpuravalli supports respiratory health, managing asthma and bronchitis by relaxing the bronchial muscles, making breathing easier.
Its natural properties are a boon during the rainy season.
Skin and Hair health and weight loss:
Regular application of its juice or paste can keep the skin clear and infection free.
Promotes hair growth and prevents grey hair.
Aids weight loss, enhancing overall well-being.
Digestive aid:
The rainy season often brings with it digestive woes including indigestion, bloating and several stomach infections. Timely use of this aromatic herb can be a boon for digestive health.
How does Karpooravalli help in boosting immunity?
Rich in antioxidants - the herb is rich in antioxidants which help in fighting free radicals and boosting overall immunity.
Anti tussive and expectorant - the presence of compounds like THYMOL and CARVACROL provides anti microbial properties which help in fighting infection and in turn boosts immunity.
Anti inflammatory- this magical herb helps in reducing inflammation thereby enhance immune function.
Anti bacterial and antifungal- its antifungal and antibacterial compounds inhibit the growth of fungi that can arise due to high humidity during rainy season whic in turn promotes faster healing.
Carminative and anti spasmodic - its gas relieving and anti spasmodic properties reduces the risk of stomach infections and other digestive woes that rainy season often brings along with it.
Culinary Adventures with Karpuravalli
Karpuravalli tea
Start your day with a cup of Karpuravalli tea.
Boil a few fresh leaves in water, strain and drink.
Bajji(pakora)
Dip Karpuravalli leaves in besan (gram flour) batter and deep-fry them.
Perfect for tea time during rainy evenings.
Karpooravalli rasam or soup or stew
A flavorful rasam made with Karpuravalli leaves.
Soothes the soul on gloomy days.
Doddapatre Tambuli(Karpooravalli Thayir Pachadi)
A no-cook summer special using Karpuravalli leaves.
Refreshing and nutritious.
Growing Karpooravalli at home
Easy to grow
Thrives in warm tropical climates.
Low-maintenance plant for balconies or terraces.
Harvest and Enjoy:
Pluck leaves as needed.
Savor the refreshing aroma in your culinary creations.
Home remedies
For intestinal worms: 10ml juice with hot water
For indigestion and improving appetite: fresh juice with ginger juice
For headache: paste of leaves can be applied on forehead
For eye inflammation: juice of leaves is applied on the orbit to relieve pain
For cough, cold and other respiratory conditions:
for infants : 5-6ml fresh juice with honey or as directed by physician
for adults: 10-15ml fresh juice with honey or as directed by physician
For diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome: fresh juice with decoction of kutaja
For insect bites: crushed leaves mixed in coconut oil can be applied
For fever: two tablespoons of fresh juice twice a day or as advised by physician
Karpuravalli, the green marvel, bridges tradition and modern wellness. Let its leaves whisper ancient secrets as you embrace its healing touch. 🌿
Remember, Karpuravalli is not just an herb; it’s a guardian of well-being, waiting to grace your home and heart. 🌱
Let this rainy season be a period of robust health and vitality and not a season of discomforts and ailments.
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