Everyone knows something about the health benefits of tea. Drinking tea for health is a nuanced practice—different teas, teaware, brewing methods, and even the drinker can lead to vastly different effects. Have you ever tried Houttuynia cordata tea? What is it, and what are its remarkable benefits? Let’s explore.

Houttuynia cordata is not just a vegetable; its health and medicinal value are exceptional.

Houttuynia cordata is a perennial herb, 30–50 cm tall, primarily grown in southern China. Also known as "fishy herb" or "chameleon plant," it earns its name from the fishy odor released when its leaves are crushed.

Traditional Chinese medicine considers Houttuynia cordata pungent and slightly cold, targeting the lung meridian. It clears heat, detoxifies, reduces abscesses, drains pus, and promotes urination, often used to treat lung abscesses, coughs from lung heat, and skin infections. Modern studies show its volatile oils and houttuynin combat bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and viruses like influenza, while enhancing immunity by boosting white blood cell activity. It also has diuretic, antitussive, wound-healing, and potential anti-tumor effects.

Benefits of Houttuynia Cordata Tea

Research confirms its anti-radiation properties, making it ideal for flight crews or those near radiation sources (e.g., X-ray technicians, computer users). Regular consumption may reduce radiation damage.

Preparing the tea is simple: rinse fresh Houttuynia, briefly boil (avoid prolonged cooking to preserve active compounds). For dried herb, steep in hot water.

Method: Cover herb with cold water, boil, wait 2 minutes, then strain. Reuse the herb for 2 more brews daily. No boiling? Steep dried herb in hot water—effects remain potent.