Houttuynia Chinese Herb

Houttuynia (Yu Xing Cao): A Cooling Herb for Clearing Heat, Detoxifying the Body, and Supporting Respiratory Health

Houttuynia, known as Yu Xing Cao (鱼腥草) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), comes from the fresh or dried leaves of the Houttuynia cordata plant. It is famous for its cooling, detoxifying properties and its strong ability to clear heat and support healthy lung function. In Chinese soups, it is commonly used for clearing internal heat, easing congestion, and promoting gentle detoxification.

What Is Houttuynia?

Houttuynia is harvested, washed, dried or used fresh, and added to soups, teas, or herbal formulas. In TCM, it enters the Lung meridian, helping the body clear heat, resolve phlegm, and reduce toxins. It has a distinctive herbal, slightly fishy aroma (which is where its Chinese name comes from), and adds a cooling, refreshing quality to broths.

Health Benefits of Houttuynia (Yu Xing Cao)

Clears Heat and Detoxifies
Helps reduce internal heat, supports detoxification, and is commonly used for heat-related symptoms.

Supports Lung and Respiratory Health
Traditionally used to ease cough, phlegm, congestion, and heat affecting the Lungs.

Reduces Swelling and Damp-Heat
Helps cool and clear dampness, easing discomfort or inflammation caused by heat-damp conditions.

Promotes Healthy Immune Response
Widely used to support the body during seasonal changes or when dealing with congestion and respiratory irritation.

Supports Healthy Urination
Its cooling nature helps drain damp-heat and mildly promotes urination to clear toxins.

How to Use Houttuynia (Yu Xing Cao)

In Soups and Broths
Simmer with lean pork, dried figs, or apricot kernels to create a cooling soup that supports the Lungs and clears heat.

In Herbal Teas
Steep dried Houttuynia leaves for a refreshing, cooling tea that helps ease heat, congestion, or discomfort during warm seasons.

In Detox Recipes
Combine with herbs like Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua), Mulberry Leaf (Sang Ye), or Isatis Root (Ban Lan Gen) for heat-clearing formulas.

In Culinary Dishes
Fresh Houttuynia is sometimes added to salads or cold dishes in Southeast Asian cuisine for a bold, herbal flavor.

Where to Buy Houttuynia (Yu Xing Cao)

You can find Houttuynia at:

• Traditional Chinese medicine shops
• Herbal markets
• Asian grocery stores (fresh or dried)
• Online TCM herb suppliers

Look for:

• Clean, intact leaves
• Fresh, herbal aroma
• Products labeled specifically as “Yu Xing Cao”
• Reputable, lab-tested sources

Are There Any Side Effects?

Houttuynia is generally safe, but its cooling nature means those with cold-type digestion, loose stools, or weak Spleen Qi should use it in moderation. Because of its strong aroma, some people may experience mild stomach discomfort. Pregnant individuals should consult a practitioner before use. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.

Conclusion

Houttuynia (Yu Xing Cao) is a cooling, detoxifying herb used to clear heat, support Lung health, reduce phlegm, and promote internal balance. Its distinctive flavor and strong therapeutic properties make it a valuable ingredient in soups, teas, and heat-clearing formulas.

FAQs

Can Houttuynia help with cough or congestion?
Yes, it traditionally supports the Lungs and helps clear phlegm, heat, and respiratory discomfort.

Is Houttuynia good for detoxifying the body?
Yes, it clears heat and toxins while supporting natural cleansing pathways.

Is Houttuynia safe for daily use?
It can be used moderately, especially in soups or teas, but those with cold digestion should avoid long-term use.