Job:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion
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(Text)HERB & SPICE COMPANION- 106 –
HEALTH BENEFITS
In Japan, houttuynia is called
dokudami, which translates to
“poison-blocking plant.” Used since
ancient times to reverse the effects
of poison, houttuynia has also
proved effective against allergies,
as it inhibits the body’s production
of histamines after an allergy is
triggered. It’s also antibacterial
and anti-inflammatory, as well as
a cough suppressant, mild pain
reliever, digestive aid, and general
immune booster. Applied topically
for skin irritations and hemorrhoids,
houttuynia’s healthful qualities are
also plentiful when prepared as a
healing tea.HOUTTUYNIA CORDATA
Houttuynia cordata
Other common names: fersh mintFlavors: pungent, tangy, sour,
fishyLittle known outside of Asia, these
pretty, heart-shaped leaves are used
abundantly in Vietnamese cooking. The
Chameleon variety, with its dappled red-
pink-yellow-green leaves, is an impres-
sive ornamental and not generally used
in the kitchen.
Called rau diêp cá in Vietnam, hout-
tuynia is an acquired taste, to put it
lightly—its common name, “fish mint,”
proves to be an apt description, though
there’s some cilantro in there too.
However, note that the Japanese variety
of houttuynia, dokudami, has a pleasant
citrus aroma, while the Chinese plant
bears the fishy scent.In the Garden
Houttuynia, a perennial, is an aggressive spreader, so unless you intend to grow it
widely in an open area, it’s best planted in a controlled space, like beside a wall or
sidewalk or in a container. This herb is infamous for its pungent, fishy-cilantro aroma,
so keep this in mind before starting your garden.
Size: 6 inches to 1 foot tall
Container: At least 8 inches in diameter, or 1 to 2 gallonsJob:07-61264 Title:RacePoint - Herb and Spice Companion
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