Houttuynia cordata, also known as folded ear root, can be eaten in leaves, young stems, and roots. The root of Houttuynia cordata contains some specific active ingredients that have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, blood sugar regulators, and digestive effects. The leaves of the folded ear root are also rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, chlorophyll, and protein, which also have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunity-improving effects.
Therefore, whether it is the root, leaf or stem of the folded ear root, it has certain medicinal value. Whether it is better to eat roots or leaves is best decided according to the needs of the individual and the specific situation. Houttuynia cordata is relatively common in the southern market. Because the southern climate is warm and humid, which is suitable for the growth of Houttuynia cordata, it is relatively easy to find in the wild and farmland in the southern region.
Houttuynia cordata usually grows in moist environments, such as near fields, rivers, lakes, streams, and other places near waters. They prefer to grow in humid environments such as swamps, paddy fields, rice paddies, river banks, etc., so Houttuynia cordata can be found in many rural areas in the south. In some areas, they may also grow on the roadside of fields, on the edges of farmland, or on wasteland.
Houttuynia cordata has a creeping growth habit. Its stems are slender and can spread across the ground, often showing a pale green to reddish-brown color. The leaves are arranged in pairs, ovate or oval, with finely serrated margins. The color of the leaves is usually pale green to light red, with a smooth surface and thicker leaves. The overall appearance is relatively soft, and when the leaves are crushed or squeezed, they emit a faint fishy smell, hence the name"Houttuynia cordata"。
The flowering period is generally in spring, and the flowers are small, white, and arranged in the form of umbrella inflorescences. The roots of Houttuynia cordata are usually elongated, spindle-shaped or cylindrical, with a smooth surface and a light brown or yellowish brown color. The roots have a certain fragrance and contain a special chemical that has a distinctive smell. In traditional Chinese medicine, the root of Houttuynia cordata is often used to make medicinal herbs.
Houttuynia cordata varies depending on the region, season, and species. Generally speaking, Houttuynia cordata will be fresh** higher than dry products**, because fresh products need to be kept fresh for a short period of time, and transportation costs are also higher. In addition, if it is organically grown or wild-harvested, it will be relatively high. Houttuynia cordata's fresh products** generally range from 10-30 yuan per catty.
Houttuynia cordata is a common wild vegetable that has the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, diuresis and reducing swelling
1. Cold dressing: Wash the houttuynia cordata and cut it into sections, marinate it with salt for a while, and then add seasonings (such as minced garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, edible oil, etc.) for cold dressing, which has a refreshing taste.
2. Stir-fry: Wash the houttuynia cordata and cut it into sections, put it in a pot and fry it, add an appropriate amount of minced garlic, ginger slices, salt and other seasonings, and fry until it is cooked and rotten.
3. Cooking soup: Houttuynia cordata is cleaned and boiled in soup, which can be cooked with other ingredients (such as chicken, duck, pork, etc.) to make a nutritious soup.
These ways can retain the original flavor of Houttuynia cordata and give full play to its nutritional and medicinal value. Of course, there are many ways to eat Houttuynia cordata, which can be innovated and tried according to personal tastes and preferences.