Coleus amboinicus : integrative insights into phytochemistry, bioactive mechanisms, Nutritional value and therapeutic potential

Coleus amboinicus commonly known as Indian borage or Cuban oregano, is a medicinal and aromatic plant valued in traditional medicine for treating respiratory, gastrointestinal, inflammatory, and infectious conditions. This review summarises current knowledge on its phytochemical composition, antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, nutritional importance, and therapeutic potential. The plant contains diverse bioactive constituents, including thymol, carvacrol, rosmarinic acid, eugenol, and flavonoids, which contribute to its biological activities. Experimental studies demonstrate antioxidant effects through free radical scavenging, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, and enhancement of endogenous antioxidant defences, while antimicrobial activity has been reported against a broad range of bacterial and fungal pathogens. These properties highlight its potential for applications in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, functional foods, and natural preservatives. Nevertheless, variations in phytochemical composition and extraction procedures limit reproducibility. Future research should prioritise standardised methodologies, mechanistic investigations, in vivo validation, and clinical studies to facilitate evidence-based therapeutic and industrial applications.