Hidden in rural fields, this humble climbing vine carries surprising healing powers—easing pneumonia, calming digestion, and even soothing children’s coughs with time-tested remedies passed through generations.

A Common Vine With Remarkable Healing Properties

Paederia foetida, known in Vietnam as lá mơ lông, is a common vine with uncommon medicinal value. Though eaten as a side dish in rural kitchens, traditional medicine sees it as a versatile remedy. Eastern practices even recommend it for severe ailments such as pneumonia.

1. Remedy for Pneumonia Using Lá Mơ Lông

• Preparation: Blend a handful of fresh leaves with young coconut water or plain water.
• Next step: Strain, sweeten with honey, and set aside.
• Usage: Drink daily at 9 AM and 9 PM. Continue for several days for best results.

Reported results: Within a week, many claim their congestion eases, coughing subsides, and lungs feel clearer.

2. Additional Health Benefits of Lá Mơ Lông

Traditional medicine describes this plant as cool in nature, supporting multiple systems:

• Liver detoxification and fever reduction
• Improved digestion and relief from food stagnation
• Antibacterial and anti-parasitic actions
• Joint pain and rheumatism relief
• Expelling intestinal worms

A classic preparation for dysentery is chopping the leaves, mixing with eggs, wrapping in banana leaves, and grilling. Taken several times daily, this dish has long been used to ease stomach complaints.

3. Treating Persistent Cough in Children

A syrup made from lá mơ lông combined with herbs such as bách bộ, rau má, lemon root, cỏ nhọ nồi, and fresh ginger is simmered into a concentrated decoction. Sweetened lightly, it is given 2–3 times a day depending on age. Many families report children recovering from stubborn coughs within three days.

4. Relief for Indigestion and Bloating

For abdominal discomfort, fresh leaves can be eaten raw with rice or crushed into juice. Repeated for a few days, this simple approach is said to calm bloating and ease digestion naturally.

5. Reducing Seizures or Convulsions

Though less common, lá mơ lông has been used for seizure-like symptoms:

• Crush 15–60 g of leaves.
• Mix with warm water and a pinch of salt.
• Strain and drink before the evening meal.

Final Note

While lá mơ lông remains a treasured remedy in traditional households, caution is vital. Parents should introduce it gently, and always seek medical guidance for children or serious conditions like pneumonia. Combining folk wisdom with professional care ensures safer, more effective healing.