INDIAN BORAGE
aka Cuban Oregano, Mexican Mint
perennial succulent with aromatic foliage.
GROW
Propagate: stem cuttings
Light: sunny with some shades (does well in-house)
Water: Water thoroughly, discarding excess water. Allow soil to dry out slightly before watering. DO NOT overwater.
Soil: good drainage
Fertilizer: twice a month
USES
Coughs and sore throats: The leaves are commonly used in India and Southeast Asia to treat coughs. It is known to be an effective expectorant. The simplest method is to chew a leaf. You can also make a tea by boiling the leaves in water (add honey to the tea). You can also pound the leaves and mix with a little water.
Blocked nose: Rub the leaves, and inhale the vapor.
Burns, sores, insect bites and stings, and skin conditions such as eczema: Pound the leaves to a pulp, and then apply as a poultice.
Dandruff: Wash hair with an infusion of the leaves (the infusion can also be used to rinse your clothes).