Useongcho (Houttuynia Cordata Thunb)

Useongcho

The "Useongcho" is a perennial plant and belongs to the "Saururaceae" (Sambekchogwa) grouping. It is called "Useongcho" because of its unique fishy smell. It is called "Yakmomil" in the Korean encyclopedia, and it is strong in both propagation and survival power. Accordign to many medicinal scholars' theses, since it contains such biological active compounds as "Decanoilacetaldehyde," "Quercitrin," "Quercetin" and "Kalium" within its leaves, stems and roots, it helps our metabolism to clear the blood and promote the kidney's varied functions. As it is strong in its anti-bacteria, anti-inflammation, anticancer and anti-oxidation action abilities, this plant removes the toxicity from within our body, performs an intestinal cleaning and kills certain bacteria found in our skin, thus helps our skins become white. Furthermore, it has been revealed that "Useongcho" has the substance needed for a good medicinal efficacy level to treat diabetes, arthritis, pimples and varied skin related problems, Studies on it still continue. It is noticeable that the research team led by Dr. Gwon Doo-han of the Korea Research Institude of Bio-science and Biotechnology (KRIBB) has recently found a new medicinal substance to treat a cold in "Useongcho," a world's first, and it is reportedly at the stage of actual commercialization. It is a truly mysterious plant, and by using it, various functional foods and external application products are now being mass produced.