Health benefits of fish mint root

According to Oriental medicine, fish mint root has a spicy, slightly bitter taste, slightly cold properties, enters the lung, liver and spleen meridians, has the effect of clearing heat and detoxifying, promoting urination, promoting blood circulation and reducing swelling, and promoting qi and blood stasis. It is often used in the treatment of respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, digestive diseases, gynecological diseases and cases of acne and dermatitis.

Excellent heat clearing and detoxification

The roots of the fish mint are said to have a stronger detoxifying effect than the stems and leaves. This helps the body eliminate accumulated toxins, cooling the body, which is very useful in cases of internal heat, boils, or heat-related illnesses.

Diuretic, effective anti-inflammatory

Houttuynia cordata root has strong diuretic properties. This means that it helps the body eliminate excess water, reducing swelling (edema) caused by water retention. This property is very beneficial for people with edema, urinary retention, or urinary tract problems. Compounds such as quercitrin and isoquercitrin in Houttuynia cordata are believed to play an important role in this diuretic effect.

Fish mint roots have many health benefits. Photo: China South of The Clouds

Support treatment of respiratory diseases

Houttuynia cordata root is believed to have antibacterial and antiviral effects. Houttuynia cordata root extract has the ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses, including strains that cause respiratory diseases. A study by the University of Science and Technology of China has shown that exosome-like nanoparticles extracted from Houttuynia cordata root containing microRNAs (miRNAs) have the ability to inhibit respiratory RNA viruses, including influenza A (H1N1) and SARS-CoV-2.

Anti-inflammatory effect

In addition, studies have also shown that Houttuynia cordata roots contain compounds with the ability to reduce inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory cytokines and related signaling pathways.

Promotes blood circulation, reduces swelling and pain

In traditional medicine, Houttuynia root also has the effect of activating blood circulation, reducing swelling, and promoting qi and blood circulation. This means that it helps improve blood circulation, disperse blood stasis, thereby reducing swelling and pain caused by bruises, injuries, or localized inflammation. This is a little-known but very valuable effect of Houttuynia root.

Improve hemorrhoids and constipation

Although fish mint leaves are famous for their use in treating hemorrhoids and constipation, fish mint roots also contribute to this. With their ability to clear heat, laxative and diuretic properties, fish mint roots help soften stools, reduce pressure on the anal veins, thereby improving the symptoms of hemorrhoids and reducing constipation.

Blood sugar control

Some preliminary studies have shown that Houttuynia cordata root may help control blood sugar. The active ingredients in Houttuynia cordata root may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose absorption, although further research is needed to determine the mechanism and clinical efficacy. This is a promising potential for people with diabetes or at risk.

Boost your immune system

Fish mint roots contain antioxidant compounds that help protect cells from free radical damage, thereby strengthening the body's immune system. A healthy immune system helps the body fight pathogens from the external environment, reducing the risk of common diseases such as colds and coughs.

How to use fish mint root

Just like fish mint leaves, fish mint roots can also be eaten raw with other dishes as a raw vegetable. Besides, fish mint roots can also be processed into many different dishes such as mixed salad, fish mint root juice, fish mint roots stir-fried with garlic.

In addition, you can boil the water to drink: Wash the fish mint roots (can be used fresh or dried), then boil to get the water to drink every day.

Combination in medicines: Fish mint root can be combined with other herbs as directed by a practitioner of Oriental medicine to enhance the treatment effectiveness for each specific medical condition.

According to khoahocdoisong.vn

Source: https://baokhanhhoa.vn/doi-song/am-thuc/202508/loi-ich-suc-khoe-cua-re-cay-diep-ca-2d020f9/