The leaves mentioned here are fig leaves. In Vietnamese culture, the fig tree is associated with luck and abundance, so many people choose to grow this tree indoors as a decorative plant, believing it will bring them prosperity. In reality, the fig tree is not only used as an ornamental or feng shui plant, but its leaves and fruits are also edible. Specifically, fig leaves are considered a herb that enhances the flavor of dishes. They are commonly used in Vietnamese salads, spring rolls, and fermented pork sausage, among other dishes. Fig leaves are generally safe to consume as they grow naturally and require minimal use of pesticides or stimulants.
Fresh fig leaves are best when paired with other foods such as meat and fish. However, they are rarely cooked like other vegetables.
Fig leaves are commonly used in dishes such as spring rolls and fermented pork sausage.
The fig tree is an evergreen, providing edible leaves year-round. Many people believe that eating dishes with fig leaves at the beginning of the year will bring abundance and prosperity throughout the year. Fig leaves have a mild, natural astringency that helps mask the fishy odor of some foods, reducing greasiness and balancing the flavors in a meal. This herb is a popular choice for spring rolls and fermented pork sausage.
Fig leaves are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and prevents constipation. Fiber also promotes a feeling of fullness, benefiting those looking to manage their weight. Consuming fig leaves in moderate amounts can improve digestion.
Additionally, fig leaves are considered a medicinal herb, most effective when used fresh. In traditional Vietnamese medicine, they are believed to have cooling properties and a sweet, slightly astringent taste. These leaves are said to act as a diuretic, promote blood circulation, reduce pain, and possess antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties.
Fig leaves are not only used as a culinary herb but also offer health benefits and are utilized in traditional medicine.
Some studies suggest that fig leaves contain compounds that help reduce blood glucose levels, aiding in diabetes management. Additionally, certain active compounds in fig leaves are believed to inhibit the growth of malignant tumors.
Fig leaves can be used in folk remedies to reduce fever and treat the flu. A common preparation involves combining 16 grams of fig leaves (preferably those with a rough texture), 16 grams of lemon leaves, 16 grams of turmeric, and 6 grams of garlic in a pot and boiling it to create a concentrated drink. If you tend to sweat a lot, it is advisable to wait for the concoction to cool down before consuming it. Otherwise, you can drink it warm and then bundle up to induce sweating.
Fig leaves are also beneficial for postpartum women as they promote lactation. A traditional recipe for this purpose includes 100 grams of fig leaves, 50 grams of young jackfruit, 50 grams of young papaya, 10 grams of hollow grass roots, 5 grams of fennel seeds, 100 grams of sticky rice, and a pig’s trotter. These ingredients are cooked into a porridge and consumed twice a day.
Fig leaves can also be boiled to make a tea that helps detoxify the liver and treat jaundice. Use 30 grams of fig leaves, 30 grams of plantain herbs, 20 grams of Chinese foxglove root, 50 grams of centella, and 30 grams of Chinese chives, and brew them like tea instead of using regular tea leaves.
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