#DerrisScandens

Throughout the length and breadth of Thailand, the profound relationship between people and their medicinal plants is woven into the very fabric of daily life. Few remedies exemplify this synergy better than ยาผสมเถาวัลย์เปรียง, or the traditional Thai herbal mixture featuring “thao wan priang” (Derris scandens). Long cherished as a trusted folk cure for aches and pains, this complex blend is now stepping into the scientific limelight as researchers seek to validate ancient wisdom with modern clinical evidence. But what is the true story behind this iconic herbal remedy, and what should health-conscious readers know before considering its use?

Tucked away in the lush forests of Thailand, the twisting vines of Derris scandens—known locally as เถาวัลย์เปรียง—have played a quiet yet powerful role in the realm of traditional Thai healing. Today, as scientific scrutiny meets centuries-old herbal wisdom, this unassuming plant is once again stepping into the spotlight. Is there genuine healing potential behind the folk tale remedies? New research offers intriguing answers.

Across generations, Thai villagers and traditional health practitioners have leaned on เถาวัลย์เปรียง for its reputed pain-relieving powers. Extracts from the vine, especially the stems, have been integral to herbal concoctions applied for ailments like musculoskeletal pain and inflammation. Local knowledge—gathered under names like เครือเขาหนัง, เครือตาปลา, ย่านเหมาะ, and พานไสน—extends across regions from Nakhon Ratchasima to Chumphon and Nakhon Si Thammarat. In these communities, เถาวัลย์เปรียง has long been recognized for soothing stiff backs, tired limbs, and aching knees—a practical remedy for those whose lives are closely tied to the land.