11/27/2025
The answer tot his week's Herbal Trivia question is Houttuynia (Houttuynia cordata). "The Chinese name for this herb translates to “fishy-smelling herb”. It is used to clear heat."
Houttuynia leaf is known as Yu Xing Cao (fishy-smelling herb) in China. It is used to clear heat (antibacterial), to eliminate toxins, and topically to heal infections. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Houttuynia is often used to treat bronchitis, cervicitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, enteritis, urinary tract infections and cervical dysplasia. In a human clinical trial, it was found to be effective for treating ulcerative colitis.
The plant is widely used as a ground cover and can be found growing throughout the U.S., Canada and Europe.
The cooked leaves are used as a vegetable in China.
This blog is intended as an informational guide. The remedies, approaches and techniques described herein are meant to supplement, and not be a substitute for professional medical care or treatment. They should not be used to treat a serious ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health care professional.