Ethnobotanical

  Alpinia galanga - The Aromatic Root Introduction Alpinia galanga, commonly known as galangal, is a widely used medicinal and culinary plant in northern Vietnam. Its rhizomes are prized for their warming properties and distinctive aroma, traditionally used to aid digestion, relieve cold symptoms, and support overall immunity. Beyond the kitchen, galangal holds a significant place in folk medicine in the local communities. Botanical and cultural background Alpinia galanga , a member of the Zingiberaceae family, is a perennial, rhizomatous herb that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. The plant typically grows 1–2 meters in height, with broad, lance-shaped leaves arranged in two rows along an upright stem. Its inflorescence produces pale yellow flowers with red markings, forming dense clusters that bloom mainly during the late summer to early autumn. The rhizome, the primary medicinal and culinary part, develops thick, aromatic, finger-like segments underground, rich in...

  Polyscias fruticosa - Remedy for Inflammation and Digestive Health Introduction Polyscias fruticosa is a traditional medicinal shrub widely used in northern Vietnam. Its leaves and stems have long been employed in folk remedies to support digestion, reduce inflammation, and alleviate minor aches, making it a valued plant in both household and community herbal practices. Botanical and cultural background Polyscias fruticosa belongs to the Araliaceae family and is a perennial evergreen shrub or small tree, typically growing between 1 and 3 meters in height. The plant has compound pinnate leaves with glossy, dark green leaflets, small clustered flowers that are usually inconspicuous, and dark purple to black berries that develop after flowering. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, often found along forest edges, riverbanks, and cultivated home gardens, where soil is well-drained and moderately fertile. In northern Vietnam, provinces such as Lào Cai, Hà Giang, Tuyên Q...