Houttuynia cordata, commonly known as fish mint, chameleon plant, or Chinese lizard tail, is a fascinating herb with a rich history in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. This article delves into the benefits, medicinal uses, and potential side effects of this unique plant.
What is Houttuynia Cordata?
Houttuynia cordata is a perennial herb belonging to the Saururaceae family. It’s native to Southeast Asia and is widely used in various Asian countries for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The plant has a distinctive fish-like odor, which explains its common name “fish mint.”
Fun fact: In some parts of China, it’s called “dokudami,” which roughly translates to “poison-blocking plant.” Talk about a superhero name for an herb!
Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses
Houttuynia cordata has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Let’s break down some of its potential health benefits:
1. Anti-inflammatory Properties
The herb contains compounds that may help reduce inflammation in the body1. It’s like nature’s own little fire extinguisher for those pesky inflammatory flare-ups!
2. Antimicrobial Effects
Studies suggest that houttuynia cordata has antimicrobial properties, potentially helping to fight off various bacteria and viruses. It’s like having a tiny army of germ-fighters in your corner2.
3. Respiratory Health
Traditionally used for respiratory issues, this plant may help with coughs and lung-related problems3. It’s like a breath of fresh air for your lungs!
4. Diuretic Properties
The plant may have diuretic effects, potentially aiding in flushing out toxins from the body4. Think of it as nature’s way of saying, “Out with the bad, in with the good!”
5. Immune System Support
Some studies suggest that houttuynia cordata might boost immune function5. It’s like giving your immune system a little pep talk and a pat on the back.
Nutritional Content
As a food, fish mint has high nutritional value.
Every 100g of dried fish mint contains 1.96g of fat, 2.72g of protein, 67.5g of carbohydrates, 43mg of phosphorus, 574.65mg of calcium, 2.17mg of iron, 47.56mg of vitamin C, and 1.42g of soluble sugars6.
It also includes various amino acids like glutamic acid and aspartic acid.
Culinary Uses
Believe it or not, this medicinal herb is also a culinary delight in many Asian countries.
- In places like Vietnam and certain parts of China, the leaves are used as a fresh herbal garnish or added to salads7.
- In India, Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, the young leaves of Houttuynia cordata are a common condiment for cold dishes.
- About Japan, It is utilized not only in traditional Chinese medicine and medicinal diets but also in the form of functional health foods such as teas and beverages.
Who Should Use Fish Mint?
Fish mint is suitable for people with various inflammatory conditions such as chronic nephritis, urinary tract infections, skin infections like cellulitis and hives, the common cold, coughs with phlegm and heat, acute and chronic pharyngitis, and acute gastroenteritis8.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions
While houttuynia cordata has many potential benefits, it’s important to be aware of possible side effects:
- Allergic Reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions, particularly when using houttuynia cordata injections9.
- Digestive Issues: Those with weak digestive systems might experience discomfort10.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There’s not enough reliable information about its safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It’s better to play it safe and avoid use during these times.
- Potassium Overload: The herb is high in potassium, which could be problematic for people with kidney issues11.
According to stats from China’s National Center for Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring, there were at least 222 serious adverse reaction reports related to Houttuynia cordata injections from 1988 up to April 13, 200612.
Remember, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new herb or supplement to your routine. They can help you figure out if it’s the right fit for you, kind of like a matchmaker for your health!
Simple Recipe
1. Fish Mint and Yam Rib Soup
Ingredients: 20g fish mint, 250g ribs, a suitable amount of fresh yam, 6 slices of ginger, 4 jujubes, 10g goji berries, 2000ml water
Instructions: Wash and remove the roots of the fish mint, peel and cut the fresh yam into pieces (wear gloves when handling fresh yam), blanch the ribs and set aside, remove the pits from the jujubes. Put all the ingredients into a pot, bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer on low heat for 45 minutes. Season with salt to taste and drink at a suitable temperature.
Benefits: Clears heat and detoxifies, strengthens the spleen and boosts qi
2. Fish Mint, Corn, and Apple Drink
Ingredients: 30g fish mint, 2 apples, 1 ear of corn, 2000ml water
Instructions: Wash and remove the roots of the fish mint, peel and cut the apples into pieces and soak in saltwater, cut the corn into pieces (keep the corn silk), put all the ingredients into a fishnet bag and into the pot. After bringing the water to a boil over high heat, switch to medium heat and boil for 50 minutes. Drink at a suitable temperature.
Benefits: Clears heat and detoxifies, soothes a sore throat
3. Fish Mint and Chrysanthemum Tea
Ingredients: 30g fish mint, 20g chrysanthemum flowers, 10g goji berries, 6 red dates (pitted), 50g brown sugar, 2000ml water
Instructions: Wash and remove the roots of the fish mint, wash the chrysanthemum flowers and set aside. Put all the ingredients (except the brown sugar) into a pot, bring to a boil over high heat, then simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. Remove all the ingredients, add the brown sugar, and dissolve it before drinking at a suitable temperature.
Benefits: Clears the liver and detoxifies
The Bottom Line
Houttuynia cordata is a fascinating herb with a long history of use in both traditional medicine and cuisine. While it shows promise in various areas of health, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks.
Whether you’re intrigued by its potential health benefits or curious about its unique flavor in cooking, houttuynia cordata offers an interesting blend of medicinal and culinary possibilities. Just remember to approach it with caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using it medicinally.
After all, when it comes to your health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. And who knows? You might just find your new favorite herb in this little “fish mint” wonder!
- Li W, Zhou P, Zhang Y, et al. Houttuynia cordata, a novel and selective COX-2 inhibitor with anti-inflammatory activity[J]. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2011, 133(2): 922-927. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874110007580 ↩︎
- Kim K Y, Chung D O, Chung H J. Chemical composition and antimicrobial activities of Houttuynia cordata Thunb[J]. Korean Journal of Food Science and Technology, 1997, 29(3): 400-406. https://koreascience.kr/article/JAKO199703042053215.page ↩︎
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874108001529 ↩︎
- Jiangang F, Ling D, Zhang L, et al. Houttuynia cordata Thunb: a review of phytochemistry and pharmacology and quality control[J]. Chinese Medicine, 2013, 2013. https://www.scirp.org/html/6-8801100_37184.htm ↩︎
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.714694/full ↩︎
- https://bowuguan.bucm.edu.cn/kpzl/zyyzs/83333.htm ↩︎
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rl7zgr7NgkM ↩︎
- https://www.bowtie.com.hk/blog/zh/%E9%AD%9A%E8%85%A5%E8%8D%89/ ↩︎
- Han E H, Park J H, Kim J Y, et al. Houttuynia cordata water extract suppresses anaphylactic reaction and IgE-mediated allergic response by inhibiting multiple steps of FcεRI signaling in mast cells[J]. Food and chemical toxicology, 2009, 47(7): 1659-1666. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278691509001732 ↩︎
- http://health.people.com.cn/n/2015/0530/c14739-27079679.html ↩︎
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667142523000970 ↩︎
- https://news.sina.com.cn/c/h/2006-06-06/112710080772.shtml ↩︎
