Can Houttuynia cordata be eaten raw?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Herba Houttuyniae usually refers to Houttuynia cordata. Houttuynia cordata is both a food and medicinal herb, rich in vitamins, protein, fat, and unsaturated fatty acids. Eating it raw causes less loss of its nutrients and can help clear heat and detoxify the body, promote diuresis, relieve constipation, moisten the lungs to stop coughing, and eliminate abscesses and discharge pus. However, Houttuynia cordata is cold in nature; excessive raw consumption may increase internal coldness and impair spleen and stomach function.
Herba Houttuyniae usually refers to Houttuynia cordata, which can be eaten raw in moderation, but long-term and excessive consumption should be avoided. The specific analysis is as follows:
Houttuynia cordata is both a food and medicinal herb, rich in vitamins, protein, fat, and unsaturated fatty acids. Eating it raw generally preserves most of its nutrients. Moderate raw consumption may help clear heat and detoxify the body, promote diuresis and relieve constipation, moisten the lungs to stop coughing, and eliminate abscesses and pus. However, Houttuynia cordata is cold in nature; excessive raw intake may increase internal coldness. Its dietary fiber may absorb water and expand in the gastrointestinal tract, increasing digestive burden and impairing spleen and stomach function. For individuals with weak spleen and stomach, this may damage the yang energy of these organs and worsen existing conditions. Therefore, long-term and excessive consumption is not recommended.
In daily life, maintaining healthy living habits and avoiding overeating are beneficial for overall health.
