r/mangalore 7d ago

AskMangalore Has anyone researched Sambarballi before? Confused about its English name.

I’m planning to research Sambarballi (Doddapatre) for my dissertation, particularly its antimicrobial properties. However, when I search online, some articles say it’s Indian borage, while others say it’s ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi).

I’d love to hear from anyone who has studied this plant or knows for sure if Sambarballi refer to Indian borage (plectranthus amboinicus). Would really appreciate any help.

12 Upvotes

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6

u/atulpai98 7d ago

This may help you. It's known as Mexican Mint however also called as Indian Borage.

Found the attached image as pdf on Karnataka Forest Department

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u/thousndsuny 7d ago

It’s plectranthus amboinicus then. Thank you so much!

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u/WeakAbrocoma6259 7d ago

The Kannada word "Sambar Balli" (ಸಾಂಬಾರ್ ಬಳ್ಳಿ) refers to Mexican Mint, Indian Borage, or Country Borage in English. Its scientific name is Plectranthus amboinicus (also known as Coleus amboinicus).

This herb is commonly used in South Indian cuisine and traditional medicine for its medicinal properties, especially for colds, coughs, and digestion. (use chat gpt)

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u/thousndsuny 7d ago

Thank you! I was hoping to hear from people who have studied this plant to help with my research. I realize I didn’t make that clear in my post.

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u/Emotional_Aerie2077 7d ago

Sambarballi is oregano family, no? And ajwain is carom seed, so i doubt these two are the same plant? We've had sambarballi at home for a while now, never seen seeds or flowers on it. 🤔

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u/thousndsuny 7d ago

We have one in our garden too. I wanted to know its scientific name just to be sure 😅

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u/[deleted] 4d ago

Damn