Fire-Root Herb: Bridging Thai Heritage and Modern Science for Liver Health
In Thailand’s gardens and folk clinics, เจตมูลเพลิงแดง (Plumbago indica L.) captivates both traditional healers and scientists. Known locally as ปิดปิวแดง in the North and ไฟใต้ดิน in the South, this vibrant shrub with scarlet blooms sits at the intersection of culture and curiosity. Across the past decade, modern research has started to explain why Thai practitioners have trusted this plant for generations.
Thai herbalism treats health as a balance of bodily elements, and the plant’s pungent roots have long been used to support digestion, regulate menstrual flow, and soothe skin conditions. In southern communities, a root decoction described as having “hot” qualities was historically given to strengthen the body and restore energy. The use of fiery red plants like เจตมูลเพลิงแดง reflects deep Southeast Asian ethnomedical traditions that see transformation as a healing force.