Is fishy-smelling herb the same as houttuynia?
In the hills and fields of the southern regions, it is common to see a herb with a special smell. It is both a traditional medicine and a unique wild vegetable. This plant has more than twenty different names in different regions, such as fishy-smelling herb and houttuynia, and its unique edible value and medicinal effects have sparked widespread discussion.
Characteristics of Fishy-Smelling Herb (Houttuynia)
Name Origin and Plant Classification
Sansui草科蕺菜属的多年生草本植物,中文学名为蕺菜。Houttuynia is a common name in the Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan regions, while fishy-smelling herb gets its name from the unique fishy smell emitted when the leaves are crushed. They are actually the same plant from the same origin.
Morphological Features and Growth Distribution
The plant grows to a height of 30-60 centimeters, with ovate leaves that have a purplish-red underside, and the stem has a creeping growth habit. It is mainly distributed in the Yangtze River Valley and the regions to the south, while wild varieties can be found in the mountainous areas in the north. It prefers shady and damp environments.
Exploring the Edible Value of Fishy-Smelling Herb
Traditional Consumption Methods
Cold houttuynia salad is a classic dish in the southwestern region, made with tender stems and leaves mixed with chili and vinegar. It can also be used as a火锅 (hot pot) side dish, an ingredient in omelets, or dried and made into a tea substitute.
Modern Nutritional Research
It contains active ingredients such as houttuynia素 and quercetin, and experiments have shown that it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Every 100 grams of fresh product contains 70 milligrams of vitamin C and 494 milligrams of potassium.
Precautions for Consuming Fishy-Smelling Herb
Suitable and Contraindicated Populations
It is suitable for short-term consumption by people with a hot and humid constitution, while those with a spleen and stomach deficiency should be cautious. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia recommends that the daily intake of fresh product should not exceed 100 grams, and continuous consumption should not exceed 7 days.
Recommendations for Special Populations
Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and those with allergic constitutions should consult a physician. Some people are genetically sensitive to the smell of fishy-smelling herb and can reduce the odor by boiling it.
From field wild vegetables to a representative of food and medicine sharing the same origin, fishy-smelling herb houttuynia carries the memories of regional culinary culture. Only by correctly understanding its characteristics can we safely enjoy this gift from nature.