Did you know that Vietnamese coriander (Persicaria odorata) flowers and bears fruit annually, especially on plants that are regularly pruned and harvested? This versatile herb is not only a staple vegetable but also a valuable medicinal plant. Here’s why you should consider having a Vietnamese coriander plant at home.
Medicinal Properties of Vietnamese Coriander
According to traditional medicine, Vietnamese coriander has a spicy, hot taste with a warm, aromatic scent. It is known for its ability to:
- Dispel cold
- Aid digestion
- Brighten eyesight
- Improve mental clarity
- Strengthen the liver and kidneys
- Act as a natural disinfectant
When consumed early, Vietnamese coriander warms the stomach, improves digestion, and boosts overall health.
Common Uses and Remedies
- Bloating and Indigestion:
- Crush a handful of Vietnamese coriander leaves, extract the juice, and rub the pulp on your stomach, focusing on the lower abdomen.
- Heatstroke Relief:
- Crush fresh leaves, extract the juice, and boil it to make a refreshing remedy.
- Indigestion:
- Use Vietnamese coriander as a spice or boil 10-20g of the whole plant and drink the infusion after meals.
- Stomachache, Vomiting, or Heatstroke:
- Drink 25-30 ml of fresh Vietnamese coriander juice twice a day.
- Skin Conditions (Ringworm, Scabies):
- Soak the whole plant in alcohol, apply the infused liquid to affected areas, and use the residue as a bandage.
- Heart Pain Relief:
- Boil 50g of Vietnamese coriander root with water. Add a small amount of wine and consume as needed.
- Bruises, Swelling, and Pain:
- Mix crushed fresh Vietnamese coriander with camphor or camphor oil. Apply or bandage the mixture to the affected area.
- Flu Remedy:
- Crush a handful of Vietnamese coriander with three slices of fresh ginger, extract the juice, and drink. Alternatively, boil 20g of Vietnamese coriander, 20g of perilla, and other herbs like basil and ginger to make a medicinal tea.
- Snakebite Treatment:
- Crush a handful of Vietnamese coriander leaves, extract the juice for the victim to drink, and apply the residue to the wound. Bandage the area immediately for best results.
- Foot Sores and Infections:
- Apply crushed Vietnamese coriander directly to the wound or use its juice. Repeat twice daily, ensuring the wound stays dry to prevent secondary infection.
Why Keep Vietnamese Coriander at Home?
With its wide range of medicinal uses, Vietnamese coriander is a natural and effective remedy for various health issues. Whether you need a quick fix for indigestion or a remedy for skin conditions, this plant offers a versatile, easy-to-grow solution for your home.
