Discover 6 fragrant herbs that can enhance your health and longevity:
1. Basil
There are many varieties of basil, including lemon basil, Thai basil, and holy basil. These herbs are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, adding a distinctive flavor to dishes such as noodles, pho, curry, and salads.
Basil is packed with nutrients, including carbohydrates, fats, protein, vitamins B6, B9, and C, and minerals such as iron, manganese, copper, and potassium. It also contains essential oils that give it its unique fragrance.
In traditional East Asian medicine, a concoction of basil, scallions, chrysanthemum leaves, and angelica root is believed to be an effective remedy for treating the common cold.
The antibacterial properties of basil’s essential oils can also be utilized by crushing the leaves and applying them to insect bites or allergic rashes to reduce swelling and itching.
Basil promotes healthy digestion, relieves stomach aches, and soothes irritated stomachs. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties also make it useful for treating coughs and asthma. Additionally, basil is a great companion in weight loss journeys as it naturally stimulates digestion.
2. Perilla
In East Asian medicine, perilla is believed to have a warming effect on the body and is used to treat colds, improve digestion, and alleviate allergies. It is often added to dishes with cooling properties, such as frog legs, snail, and fish salads.
When feeling under the weather, a simple home remedy is to boil perilla leaves for a few minutes and drink the infusion or use it for a foot bath. This natural antibiotic can help induce sweating and speed up recovery.
3. Chrysanthemum Leaves
Chrysanthemum leaves, also known as tung ho, are commonly used in East Asian cuisine and medicine. Eating these fresh leaves or adding them to salads helps balance digestion.
According to traditional East Asian medicine, chrysanthemum leaves have a warm and slightly spicy flavor due to their high essential oil content. They are believed to relieve colds and are safe enough to be used as a remedy for children.
Regular consumption of chrysanthemum leaves is thought to boost the immune system, improve sleep quality, and enhance skin health. They are also believed to have antidepressant properties.
4. Cilantro
Cilantro is an essential herb in Southeast Asian cuisine, adding a distinctive flavor to dishes such as duck, goose, pho, and fish soup.
It is also believed to have medicinal properties, including detoxification, improving digestion, and cooling the body. Adding cilantro to protein-rich dishes helps reduce their strong aroma and makes them easier to digest.
5. Fish Mint
Fish mint, or diếp cá, has a unique flavor and is commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine. It is added to dishes like salads, spring rolls, and fried foods to aid digestion.
Fish mint is believed to have cooling properties and is used to treat constipation and heat-related ailments. It can be consumed daily, either fresh or dried, or made into a juice with a pinch of salt.
6. Sawtooth Coriander
According to East Asian medicine, sawtooth coriander, or lá mơ lông, has a sweet and bitter flavor and a cooling effect on the body. It is believed to benefit the spleen, stomach, liver, and lungs.
This herb is used to treat joint pain caused by wind-dampness, injuries, and pain resulting from external trauma. It is also used to alleviate pain in the liver and gallbladder, treat jaundice, and improve digestion. Additionally, it is believed to boost white blood cell counts affected by radiation and counteract pesticide poisoning.
Externally, sawtooth coriander is used to treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and abscesses. It can be applied topically as a poultice or used in a decoction for washing affected areas.
The Ultimate Superfood: The Vegetable That’s Worth Its Weight in Gold
This particular plant is a nutritional powerhouse, serving as a culinary delight (similar to the Vietnamese salad staple) and a beauty and health booster.
The Perfect Blend of Sweet and Sour: Unveiling the Secret Ingredient.
For just 8,000 to 10,000 VND, you can enjoy a refreshing glass of sugarcane juice, approximately 500ml with ice. That’s right, for less than the price of a cup of coffee, you can beat the heat with this sweet and healthy treat. But have you ever wondered why vendors often add a slice of citrus, specifically a quất (a type of bitter orange), to your glass of sugarcane juice? It’s more than just a decorative touch – it’s a traditional twist with a burst of flavor!
The Ultimate Superfood: Unlocking the Power of This Underrated Vegetable
This vegetable is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential nutrients that promote overall health and well-being. Yet, it remains a hidden gem, unknown to many.
Who Should Refrain from Drinking Perilla Leaf Tea?
Introducing the powerful health benefits of perilla leaf water – a nutritional powerhouse, but not for everyone.
Perilla leaf water is an ancient remedy, a traditional drink with a plethora of health advantages. Rich in essential nutrients, it offers a boost to overall wellness. However, despite its myriad benefits, this drink is not universally suitable. Some individuals should refrain from consuming it.
Moringa, the ‘Beef of Vegetables’: Superfood with Astonishing Health Benefits
Moringa, the “miracle tree”, is a nutritional powerhouse that offers a plethora of health benefits. This superfood is known to regulate blood sugar levels, promote healthy skin, support liver function, and boost overall well-being. With its rich nutrient profile, Moringa is a natural remedy that has gained recognition for its ability to enhance one’s quality of life.
