Vietnamese coriander is more than just a familiar herb in daily cooking. With its bold aroma, it not only elevates the flavor of traditional dishes but also serves as a natural remedy packed with impressive health benefits.

1. What is Vietnamese coriander?

Vietnamese coriander is a well-known herb which has been flourishing throughout Vietnam and harvested year-round. This fragrant, leafy plant grows low to the ground. Typically 15-30 cm tall, it can reach up to 80 cm in ideal conditions.

Coriander in Vietnam thrives in warm, humid conditions with moderately fertile soil, growing well in both the full sun and partial shade. The stems are cylindrical, green with a reddish tint, around 2-3 mm in diameter, and grow in opposite pairs with shallow grooves. The long, slender leaves are dark-green with a purplish underside, often marked with chestnut-colored spots on the top surface.

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2. Health benefits of Vietnamese coriander

The benefits of Vietnamese coriander are remarkably diverse, especially in the realm of natural remedies. All parts of the Vietnamese coriander herb have long been used in traditional medicine. It helps relieve bloating, indigestion, stomach pain, and digestive issues when used as a decoction. The Vietnamese coriander essential oil treats dandruff, while the leaves and seeds reduce pain, inflammation, and bacteria, and are used for diarrhea, skin itching, hemorrhoids, and regulating menstruation.

According to modern medicine, Vietnamese coriander extracts have been shown to fight various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its oxalic acid content aids digestion, relieving stomach pain, bloating, and indigestion. With strong antiseptic properties, it helps heal skin conditions like scabies and ringworm while also cleansing the liver. Studies show that it is more effective than a placebo in boosting sexual activity in healthy individuals.

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3. Popular uses of Vietnamese coriander

3.1. Medicinal uses

For medicinal purposes, mature Vietnamese coriander plants with reddish-purple stems, harvested before flowering, are often preferred since they contain the highest levels of antioxidants and healing compounds. This herb is used in various folk remedies, including:

Treating the common cold: Steep a handful of Vietnamese coriander leaves with 3 slices of ginger in hot water. Drink 2-3 times a day.
Relieving vomiting and diarrhea: Boil 20g of Vietnamese coriander seeds with 40g of holy basil (huong nhu), strain, and drink 3 times a day until symptoms subside.
Reducing bloating: Crush a handful of Vietnamese coriander leaves after washing. Drink the juice and apply the pulp to the abdomen while gently massaging.
Treating snake bites (initial aid): Use the same method as for bloating above. This is only a first-aid measure. The patient must be taken to the hospital immediately after.

3.2. Culinary uses

Vietnamese coriander is a beloved herb in Vietnamese cuisine, often used to enhance flavors and neutralize odors in dishes with strong-smelling ingredients like seafood, balut, or goat meat. Vietnamese coriander recipes highlight the herb’s bold flavor. This herb works especially well in Vietnamese salad and beef soup. In dishes like cha ruoi (sandworm fritter), it helps balance the natural “coldness” of the worm. Some other popular dishes featuring this herb include stir-fried blood cockles, clay pot goby, braised beef shank, and tamarind duck eggs.

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4. Guide to buying Vietnamese coriander

Where to buy Vietnamese coriander? This herb can be found easily across the country, available at Vietnam markets and supermarkets like Co.op Mart, Winmart, Go, Bach Hoa Xanh. For those who enjoy gardening, growing it at home is a great option. Simply plant the seeds for 30-40 days and fresh leaves are ready to be harvested. When picking, gently trim the stems or cut near the base, leaving 3-5 cm so the plants can keep producing.

To choose the best Vietnamese coriander, you can gently rub the leaves to release their distinct aroma. Look for small green leaves tightly attached to the stems. These leaves should not be wilted or damaged, and should have no signs of yellowing or unusual smells. Avoid large, shiny leaves, as they are often less fragrant and flavorful. Also, make sure the leaves are free from holes caused by pests.

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5. Important notes for using Vietnamese coriander

Although Vietnamese coriander is a popular herb, it should be used in moderation. Here are some notes to keep in mind:

Excessive use of Vietnamese coriander can harm the pancreas and affect sexual health.
Avoid using this herb during pregnancy, especially in early stages, and while breastfeeding.
People with a weak constitution or "hot" body should limit consumption.
Always wash the coriander thoroughly before use.
Avoid daily or frequent consumption.
Consult a healthcare provider if using Vietnamese coriander for medicinal purposes.

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Vietnamese coriander is more than a flavorful herb, it is a signature ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine and a time-honored remedy in traditional medicine. When used mindfully, it brings both taste and well-being to your table.

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