For those who are connoisseurs of the delicious noodle dishes from the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, such as bún nước lèo, bún cá, and more, you may be familiar with a special herb called ngải bún. This herb is commonly used as a condiment to enhance the flavor of these dishes. However, what many people don’t know is that ngải bún is also a valuable medicinal herb with a variety of health benefits.
In fact, ngải bún is currently being studied for its potential in developing antiviral medications, including those against COVID-19. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of this humble herb and its potential health benefits.
1. What is Ngải Bún?
Ngải bún, or fingerroot in English, is a plant that belongs to the ginger family. It gets its name from its distinctive short, branched root system, which resembles a set of fingers. This root system is where the plant derives its medicinal properties.
Fingerroot has a short, branched root system
In the cuisine of the Mekong Delta region, ngải bún is commonly used as a condiment in local specialties such as bún nước lèo, bún cá, and more. Its delicate and distinctive flavor helps to neutralize the strong odors of these noodle dishes, adding a unique and unmistakable touch.
Fun fact: Fingerroot is also used in the famous Thai soup, Tom Yum Goong!
The provinces of Tra Vinh, Soc Trang, Kien Giang, An Giang, and Long An (in the districts bordering Cambodia) are known for their use of ngải bún in their local cuisine.
2. The Benefits of Ngải Bún
Fingerroot is used in traditional medicine in several countries
Ngải bún has a long history of use in the traditional medicine of Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia. It is believed to be effective in treating a range of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, stomach aches, skin inflammation, dry coughs, fibroids, and leukorrhea, among others.
Additionally, fingerroot exhibits antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, and antitumor properties. It has been shown to be effective in inhibiting the growth of certain cancer cell lines, particularly pancreatic cancer.
One of its most notable benefits is its ability to inhibit the dengue virus, making it a valuable herb in regions where this mosquito-borne disease is prevalent.
3. Can Ngải Bún Help Fight COVID-19?
A study conducted in Thailand investigated the potential of fingerroot in combating COVID-19. The study, which tested 122 extracts and pure compounds from the plant, found that extracts from the root and a compound called panduratin A exhibited antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in both the attachment and entry inhibition phases, as well as in the post-entry phase by inhibiting viral replication.
Fingerroot is a potential candidate for developing antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2
These findings suggest that ngải bún could be a promising candidate for the development of antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2 derived from medicinal herbs. However, it is important to note that the data on this effect is still limited and there have been no clinical trials conducted. Therefore, while ngải bún may offer potential benefits, it should not be relied upon as a treatment for COVID-19 without medical supervision.
If you wish to use ngải bún for its medicinal properties, it is important to consult a doctor or herbalist to determine the appropriate dosage and usage.
Consult a doctor or herbalist for the proper dosage and usage of fingerroot
4. Ngải Bún Price and Where to Buy
You can purchase fresh ngải bún at local markets or specialty stores selling Mekong Delta ingredients and spices. The price for a kilogram of fresh fingerroot is typically around VND 120,000 (approximately USD 5). You can also find individuals selling ngải bún online through social media or e-commerce platforms.
Fingerroot is readily available for purchase online and in local markets
We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into the world of ngải bún and its potential health benefits. Remember to consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal remedies, and always purchase your herbs from reputable sources. Stay healthy and happy!
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