Houttuynia cordata is a wild plant that is widely distributed in rural areas and has been controversial. Some people are disgusted by its unique smell, while others love it to the fullest. Houttuynia cordata is a perennial herb with a cylindrical stem that is twisted and easily broken. The leaves are heart-shaped, green on the top and purple on the back. When the leaves are crushed, they emit a pungent fishy smell. Houttuynia cordata blooms in summer, the flowers are white, and the spike-like inflorescences are apical. Houttuynia cordata is found in most provinces of China, but is most commonly found in fields, roadsides, and wilderness in the south.
Houttuynia cordata gets its name because of its unique smell, also known as the root of the fern and the root of the folded ear. There are also other names in different places, such as purple-backed Houttuynia cordata, pig nostrils, stinky grass, etc. In Yunnan, Guichuan and other places, people used to pick the underground rhizomes of Houttuynia cordata to eat. Houttuynia cordata has an important position in the herbs of the same origin as medicine and food. It can be eaten both as a wild vegetable, both on the leaves and on underground rhizomes, and for medicinal purposes. Houttuynia cordata is recognized as a good medicine for clearing heat and detoxifying, diuretic and drenching. Especially in the summer, when the heat is unbearable, if you encounter heat stroke, making Houttuynia cordata tea is a common emergency treatment. Houttuynia cordata is also highly nutritious, rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, protein and polyphenolic compounds, which have a positive effect on improving human immunity.
There are many preferences and innovations in the way Houttuynia cordata is eaten. Especially in Yunnan, Guichuan and other places, it is the most common way to eat Houttuynia cordata cold dressing. Houttuynia cordata leaves are served cold, with green onions, ginger, garlic and chili peppers, for a crispy and refreshing taste. In addition to being eaten as a wild vegetable, Houttuynia cordata can also be used as a condiment, giving food a special smell. In terms of medicinal use, Houttuynia cordata is widely used for clearing heat and detoxifying, diuretic and drenching. Dried Houttuynia cordata soaked in water can not only relieve heat and heat, but also has a cinnamon aroma, similar to the taste of black tea.
For me, as someone who likes heavy flavors, I can't accept the taste of Houttuynia cordata. But I can't deny its value and diversity either. Houttuynia cordata is a wild vegetable that can be eaten as is, as well as for flavoring and medicinal purposes. It not only clears away heat and detoxifies, but also contains rich nutrients, which are beneficial to human health. Each region has its own likes and dislikes of wild plants, but we should respect nature and make good use of natural resources. By understanding and utilizing Houttuynia cordata, we are able to discover more delicious and healthy options. Houttuynia cordata's unique smell and multiple values bring infinite possibilities to our lives.
Houttuynia cordata is a common wild plant that is widely distributed in rural areas. It is controversial for its unique smell, which some people like and others don't. Houttuynia cordata not only has edible value and can be eaten as a wild vegetable, but also has medicinal value, which can clear heat and detoxify. Houttuynia cordata is rich in nutrients and is beneficial to human health. By understanding and utilizing Houttuynia cordata, we can discover more delicious options and benefit from our health. For farmer friends, it is very beneficial to know and make good use of Houttuynia cordata. Whether it is eaten as a wild vegetable or as a medicinal herb, Houttuynia cordata can bring a different experience to our lives.