Two familiar leaves that help cool the body, stabilize blood sugar, and support healthy blood lipid levels
Vối leaves and lotus leaves are two familiar leaves in daily life, while also being considered folk remedies with numerous health benefits. When used properly, these two types of leaves can support digestion, stabilize blood sugar, reduce blood lipids, and help cool the body during hot weather.
Cleistocalyx operculatus leaves
According to traditional medicine, Cleistocalyx operculatus leaves (lá vối) are commonly used to support the treatment of conditions such as digestive disorders, high blood lipids, gout, and diabetes. The leaves contain numerous active compounds that stimulate the stomach to secrete digestive fluids and promote food metabolism, thereby relieving flatulence, bloating, indigestion, and constipation.
According to records by Prof. Dr. Do Tat Loi in Medicinal Plants and Traditional Remedies of Vietnam, the voi tree (scientific name Cleistocalyx operculatus) is a benign, non-toxic, and safe herb to use. The decoction made from voi leaves and flower buds has a pleasant aroma and is traditionally used as a cooling drink in folk medicine thanks to its many health benefits, helping to beat the heat on hot days.
Vối leaves contain a high polyphenol content with antioxidant properties, while vối buds contain flavonoids that help manage blood sugar levels, support reducing blood lipids, and control blood pressure. Additionally, beta-sitosterol along with vitamins and minerals in vối leaves contribute to promoting cholesterol metabolism.
You can boil about 5 fresh cleistocalyx leaves for 20 minutes. If using dried leaves, you can steep about 6 leaves in 1.5 liters of water and boil for about 20 minutes to drink.
Lotus leaves
In traditional medicine, lotus leaf (folium nelumbinis) has a bitter taste and neutral nature, commonly used to clear heat, eliminate dampness, and support weight loss.
Modern studies show that lotus leaves contain alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins with antioxidant properties that support the regulation of lipid metabolism and inhibit fat absorption. This leaf helps lower blood pressure, reduce blood lipids, and prevent cardiovascular diseases.
Some small studies note that lotus leaves may help reduce triglycerides and improve fatty liver condition, although clinical evidence remains limited.
Additionally, lotus leaves act as a diuretic, promoting the elimination of excess water from the body. The active compounds in the leaves stimulate digestive secretions and enhance intestinal motility, thereby helping to prevent constipation. On hot days, lotus leaves are also commonly used to clear heat and help alleviate heatstroke.
People often use 10-15g of dried lotus leaves to brew tea or make a decoction. However, you should not overuse lotus leaves over a long period. Experts advise self-use for a maximum of 7-10 consecutive days. If symptoms such as diarrhea, bloating, fatigue, or low blood pressure occur, discontinue use immediately.
Although the water brewed from these two types of leaves is beneficial, you should not use it as a replacement for plain drinking water daily. If you wish to use it long-term to support disease treatment, consult a doctor or a traditional medicine practitioner.