The panadol plant, or Plectranthus caninus (syn. Coleus caninus), is a wonderful herb with a wealth of uses. When grown, harvested, and utilized correctly, its benefits extend to the fields of medicine, culinary arts, and landscaping. This tender herb is a refreshing and easy-to-grow member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Its wild stands are found in both Africa, specifically the southern and eastern regions of the continent, and South Asia.
At first glance, one might confuse the panadol plant with its close relatives. Its bright leaves are easy on the eyes and arise in a neat manner around upright shoots. Depending on ambient conditions, the shoots may thrive as annuals or persist as short-lived perennials. As they can store a considerable amount of moisture in their leaves, they may be referred to as semi-succulents.
Herbalists have lauded the many applications of growing panadol, but this flowering species has yet to be extensively studied and cultivated for its pharmaceutical potential. Regardless, both new and unseasoned gardeners are likely to welcome its lavender inflorescences and maybe even use its leaves to brew tea.
Uses of Panadol as a Medicinal Herb
Several Plectranthrus species have ethnobotanical uses due to the formulation of their essential oils. When these are extracted and isolated correctly, they can be added to herbal solutions for the treatment of a wide range of ailments. Both the aromatic leaves and the branched taproot contain phytochemicals that may reduce the severity of gum and teeth disorders. Extracts obtained directly from the roots may also aid in the treatment of cough.
Like many other members of the mint family, many of panadol’s beneficial phytochemicals can be extracted by brewing bush tea. Boiling the leaves releases anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds that should help relieve some oral, digestive, and respiratory symptoms. Moreover, the plant contains cytotoxic and antioxidant properties. These have applications in the treatment of more serious ailments, like cancer-causing tumors.
Traditionally, the leaves of panadol and its congeners have also been used to treat skin diseases and cleanse the breasts of nursing mothers. Presumably, the thick, antimicrobial leaves, which may have an odor that is similar to that of eucalyptus, would help prevent dermal infections. Of course, as with all herbal treatments, it would be best to responsibly take just a low concentration of tea or spot sample the leaves before use.
Components of Panadol Essential Oil
The essential oil of Plectranthrus caninus is predominantly composed of camphor and a-thujene. Camphor is a monoterpene that can be medicinally used as a topical treatment or as an antitussive (via inhalation). In general, camphor derived from plant oils can function as an antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory compound. It has traditionally been used to relieve mouth pains, itchiness, and cough, though there has yet to be enough scientific evidence to confirm its medicinal effects.
A-thujene, on the other hand, is another monoterpene that can supposedly provide minor pain relief and protection from bacteria. Its presence likely contributes to the pungent scent and strong flavor of panadol essential oil. When taken as a whole, these components and the rest of the trace compounds in panadol have been shown to be effective against the growth of several types of pathogens – including a broad spectrum of bacterial and fungal strains. This truly highlights the plant’s potential as an herbal treatment for microbial disorders.
Myths About Panadol
A common belief about the panadol plant as an herbal remedy is that it contains paracetamol. The plant itself doesn’t actually contain any traces of this analgesic compound. This myth understandably springs from the fact that an actual drugstore product, named “Panadol” exists. While some “Panadol” products do contain paracetamol, they aren’t entirely fashioned to mimic the effects of the panadol plant.
Despite the absence of paracetamol in the plant, P. caninus may also occasionally be referred to as “paracetamol plant”. Undoubtedly, this only makes everyone even more confused! If you do find that the beneficial effects of the panadol essential oil are much like that of the “Panadol” drug, it is likely due to the similarities of their overall antimicrobial properties instead of their chemical formulations.
Benefits of Panadol in the Kitchen
Adventurous home chefs may find themselves using panadol as a seasoning for fragrant dishes. With both a texture and smell that can be likened to that of oregano, its crushed leaves can add complexity to many concoctions. Slightly bitter, these leaves can be mixed with other herbs to create an all-purpose seasoning for various types of meat. Just make sure to err on the side of being conservative when deciding on how many panadol leaves to add to your culinary experiments!
Growing Panadol in an Herb Garden
Panadol naturally spreads as a mat-forming and low-growing herb. Its shoots rarely grow to more than 60 cm (24 inches) tall, with mature ones becoming increasingly woody along their base. In the wild, this species is typically found in communal stands along rocky outcrops, underneath taller trees, or in open and relatively dry woodlands. If you intend to grow it in the garden, keep in mind that it favors well-draining substrates and full to partial sun exposure.
Hardy to USDA zones 10 – 11, panadol thrives best in warm temperatures and in sandy to loamy soils where its roots can quickly expand. In optimal conditions and the absence of competitors, this herb is known for growing fast. Its roots may need to be restricted to within their own pots or containers, especially if you wish to place them next to other tender herbs.
If you’re located in a temperate region, you might want to consider cultivating panadol as an annual plant. As it is fast-growing, there should be enough time in spring and summer for its shoots to produce an ample bounty of leaves and blooms.
How to Plant Panadol
Panadol is remarkably easy to plant and grow in warm regions. If the soil temperature is above 15.5˚C (60˚F), you’ll find that its seeds and cuttings may produce new growths in no time. Seeds can be collected from dried flower heads. Depending on ambient conditions, these can be sown either indoors or in a protected outdoor location. In temperate areas, it would be best to sow them in a greenhouse a few weeks before the final frost passes.
Panadol seeds should be sown on a pre-moistened and sterile starter mix. The germination setup should be kept warm and placed in a spot where it receives partial or filtered light. After a few weeks, the seedlings should have a few pairs of their first true leaves. These can be carefully uprooted and transplanted into their own pots. Once they’ve reached a more easily manageable size, they can be moved outdoors (conditions permitting).
Is the Panadol Plant Toxic or Invasive?
Given the complex formulation of its aromatic essential oil, there’s no doubt that P. caninus has the potential to be a toxic plant. Ingesting a high dose of its leaves can lead to troublesome side effects, such as nausea and vomiting. Highly conservative doses should be used if you intend to grow this plant for its herbal benefits.
Interestingly, panadol may also be referred to as “scaredy cat plant”. This amusing name alludes to its ability to deter scent-sensitive animals, like cats and dogs. The strong odor of the leaves should keep pets, potential wild grazers, and leaf-eating insects away from their dense stands. Note, also, that the camphor-rich leaves are toxic to livestock.
Fortunately, despite its ability to grow and spread quickly, panadol is not known for being an invasive plant. It does have naturalized stands outside of its native range, but these are not associated with ecological damage. Many of its close relatives in the mint family, however, can definitely be invasive.
Where to Buy the Panadol Plant
P. caninus can be purchased as seeds or juvenile plants in many nurseries, commercial herb gardens, and online plant portals. Before purchasing this species, make sure the conditions of your area are suitable for its growth. Note, also, that its presence in your garden or home may have an adverse effect on pets.
