Plectranthus amboinicus, commonly known as Indian borage or Cuban oregano, has a long history of traditional use in folk medicine across South and Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. While it is most frequently used for respiratory ailments, digestive complaints, and as an anti-inflammatory agent, there are folk traditions in some cultures where the plant is used to “calm nerves,” “reduce stress,” or induce relaxation, which are often loosely associated with relief from anxiety. These uses are typically based on anecdotal reports or traditional beliefs rather than systematic study.

However, scientific research specifically investigating the anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties of Plectranthus amboinicus is extremely limited. A few in vivo and in vitro studies have explored the plant’s essential oils and extracts for general neuropharmacological activity, including sedative or CNS depressant effects in animal models, but these studies are preliminary, sparse, and often not directly focused on anxiety. No robust clinical trials in humans have validated its efficacy or safety for treating anxiety. As a result, its use for anxiety is justified primarily by tradition, not by scientific validation, and the overall strength of evidence supporting this use is weak (rated 1 out of 5).

In summary, Plectranthus amboinicus is used for anxiety in traditional medicine in some cultures, but there is a lack of rigorous scientific evidence to support this application.