[Kosearet (Amharic); A-kimbo (Sierra Leone); Ngadi, Dutmutzuri (Congo);
Lemon Herb, Butter Clarifying Herb, Gambey Tea Bush, Gambian Tea Bush
(English); Verveine d'Afrique (French) Lippia abyssinica
(Verbina family)]
This shruby herb, growing to about 7 feet, is native to Ethiopia, but is now cultivated all over tropical Africa. It is most typically used as a dried herb in Ethiopian cuisines, particularly in Niter kibbeh, a spiced clarified butter, and in oils, said to be an effective preservative. It is also used in various spice mixes, particularly the hot chili mix Mitmita.
In the Congo (D.R. Congo and R.Congo) it is used fresh as a potherb. In Gambia (West Africa) it is used dried as a substitute for tea.
More on Verbinas.
More on Herbs.