Food Sci Nutr. 2026 Jun 8;14(6):e71419. doi: 10.1002/fsn3.71419. eCollection 2026 Jun.
ABSTRACT
Coleus amboinicus (Lour.), commonly called Indian borage, Mexican mint, and Oregano thyme, is a member of the Lamiaceae family, native to Southeast Asia and Africa. This herb is widely known for its rich nutritional composition, including essential vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as thymol, carvacrol, and rosmarinic acid. The therapeutic potential of C. amboinicus lies in its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and prebiotic properties, which aid in managing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular issues, diabetes mellitus, and respiratory conditions. Recent studies have demonstrated its potential in food preservation, offering a natural alternative to synthetic preservatives due to its antimicrobial properties. Despite its promising applications, challenges such as variability in bioactive content, a lack of robust clinical trials, and regulatory approval remain. This review examines the nutritional composition, therapeutic benefits, and potential as a functional food of C. amboinicus. It suggests future research directions to overcome existing barriers and enhance integration into modern dietary systems.
PMID:42266885 | PMC:PMC13244078 | DOI:10.1002/fsn3.71419