Mints: Vick's Plant

» Wen - Vick's Plant

The Vick's Plant (Plectranthus purpuratus) is one of my favorite "conversation plants". I used to have one for several years, but left it outside over night one spring when I should have brought it inside and it froze to death. They are quite succeptible to the cold, so that is one thing you need to be worried about. I loved the blue green leaves, and everyone was always so surprised when they took a whiff of it.

I do not know if it is the medicine used in those chest rubs, etc. but you can use it for that. It actually is used quite commonly as a decongestant/cold remedy in Mexico where it is called Menthilato. They drink it as a tea, make it into a poultice, or even chew it I believe. So, it is safe to consume internally, I do not know if it is safe for children or not, or even if there has been any research done upon it. I got the plant from a former boss (pharmacist) when I worked in a pahrmacy and he always used it for colds. I just liked the way it looked and smelled. =)

Hope this helps!

Wen

-- posted by Wen