Origin

Jamaica

Folk medicinal uses

This species, a native of Java, is cultivated to some extent in the West Indies where it is used for seasoning. In Jamaica it is sometimes used in decoctions employed as cold remedies. The fresh leaves contain a high proportion of water and about 0.55 per cent volatile oil which has a considerable carvacrol content. In the East it is used in native medicine in the treatment of asthma, chronic coughs, colic, dyspepsia, epilepsy and other convulsive affections. It is said to have an intoxicating effect.

Asprey, G.F; Phylis Thornton/ Medicinal plants of Jamaica. Parts III & IV. – p. 58.