Orthosiphon

Orthosiphon is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. The genus is characterized by its erect, often woody stems and simple, opposite leaves. The flowers are typically small, tubular, and arranged in whorls, with a corolla that is often two-lipped. The genus includes several species, with Orthosiphon aristatus being one of the most well-known.

Orthosiphon plants are valued for their medicinal properties. The leaves and stems are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive issues, fever, and inflammation. The plant is also used in herbal teas and as a natural remedy for colds and flu. In addition to its medicinal uses, Orthosiphon is sometimes cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage.

The genus Orthosiphon is closely related to other mint family members, such as Mentha and Nepeta. However, it is distinct in its growth habit and floral structure. The name Orthosiphon is derived from the Greek words orthos, meaning "upright," and siphon, meaning "pipe," referring to the plant's erect stems and tubular flowers. The genus was first described by the French botanist René Louiche Desfontaines in 1813.