Vietnamese coriander, also known as rau răm in Vietnamese, is a pungent, peppery herb commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine. Beyond its culinary applications, it has been employed in traditional medicine for centuries due to its purported anti-inflammatory, digestive, and antimicrobial properties. Below is a comprehensive list of remedies using Vietnamese coriander for various ailments:
1. Bloating & Indigestion Relief
- Method: Take a handful of fresh Vietnamese coriander leaves. Wash thoroughly, crush, and extract the juice by squeezing. Apply the leftover pulp externally by rubbing it on the stomach, particularly around the lower abdominal area.
- Purpose: Helps to ease digestive discomfort such as gas, bloating, and mild cramps by stimulating peristalsis and reducing inflammation.
2. Summer Heatstroke Treatment
- Method: Crush fresh Vietnamese coriander, extract the juice, and boil it in water. Let it cool and drink the decoction.
- Effect: The herb’s cooling properties are believed to help regulate body temperature and prevent heat-related fatigue and dehydration during hot weather.
3. Remedy for Indigestion After Meals
- Method: Use 10–20g of the whole plant. Boil in water and drink after meals.
- Purpose: Aids in digestion by stimulating gastric juices and relieving mild gastrointestinal issues such as heaviness, nausea, and gas.
4. Stomachaches, Nausea, and Vomiting
- Method: Drink 25–30 ml of fresh Vietnamese coriander juice, twice daily.
- Effect: Reduces symptoms of cold stomach, indigestion, and thirst through its warming, carminative effects.
5. Skin Conditions (Ringworm, Scabies)
- Method: Soak the entire plant in alcohol for a few days to create an infused extract. Use the infused alcohol for topical application. The remaining pulp can be applied directly to affected areas and bandaged.
- Purpose: Helps combat fungal and parasitic skin infections due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
6. Sudden Heart Pain (Traditional Use)
- Method: Boil 50g of Vietnamese coriander roots. Mix the decoction with one small cup of rice wine and drink.
- Caution: This is a traditional folk remedy. Anyone experiencing acute chest pain should seek immediate medical attention.
7. Pain, Bruises, Paralysis
- Method: Crush the fresh herb and mix with camphor or camphor oil. Rub on bruised or paralyzed areas, or use it as a compress.
- Effect: Believed to improve circulation and reduce inflammation, aiding recovery from trauma and nerve-related discomfort.
8. Flu and Respiratory Infections
- Simple Remedy: Crush a handful of Vietnamese coriander with three slices of fresh ginger. Extract the juice and drink.
- Advanced Herbal Formula:
- 20g Vietnamese coriander
- 20g perilla leaves
- 16g basil
- 16g pork bone marrow
- 10g Chinese clematis
- 10g Chinese angelica root
- 10g fresh ginger
Boil all ingredients and drink the warm decoction.
- Effect: This complex blend warms the body, enhances immunity, and helps clear respiratory congestion.
9. Snakebite First Aid
- Method: Immediately crush a handful of Vietnamese coriander leaves, squeeze out the juice, and give it to the victim to drink. Apply the pulp to the bite site and bandage.
- Note: This is a traditional emergency remedy; modern antivenom and medical care are essential in actual snakebite incidents.
10. Athlete’s Foot and Foot Sores
- Method: Crush the herb and apply the pulp directly to the affected area. Alternatively, squeeze out the juice and apply it twice daily.
- Effect: The antimicrobial qualities help combat fungal infections and promote healing. Keep the area dry to avoid secondary infections.
Additional Notes on Men’s Health
- Aphrodisiac Claims: Anecdotal reports suggest that consuming Vietnamese coriander juice or decoctions may enhance male stamina or libido. One testimonial claims prolonged performance during intercourse after use. However, these claims lack scientific validation and should be approached cautiously.
- Weight Loss Myth: Some sources claim that drinking a glass of a certain Vietnamese coriander preparation before bedtime can result in weight loss of up to 16 kg in 2 weeks. There is no scientific evidence supporting such extreme results. Sustainable weight loss requires a balanced diet, regular exercise, and medical guidance.
Cultural Beliefs
In some Southeast Asian cultures, Vietnamese coriander is believed to suppress libido and is sometimes avoided by monks or used to “cool” the body emotionally. Contrastingly, some anecdotal folk uses promote it as a sexual stimulant—highlighting the diversity of traditional perspectives.
Conclusion
Vietnamese coriander is a versatile herb with a strong presence in both the kitchen and the traditional medicine cabinet. While many of its uses are supported by centuries of anecdotal experience, more scientific research is needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety in treating specific medical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using herbal remedies, especially for serious or persistent symptoms.