#LygodiumPolystachyum

Lipeao, a delicate climbing fern native to Thailand, threads together folk wisdom, rural livelihoods, and growing scientific inquiry. In northern and southern communities alike, this plant—known by many regional names such as Kud Khreu, Kud Ngaod Ngaed, and Leh Phao—embodies a living link between age-old healing practices and contemporary research. As Thai health advocates push for evidence-based natural remedies, Lipeao’s reputation is being reexamined through a modern lens while remaining deeply rooted in local culture.

From the leafy forests of northern Thailand to the backyard gardens of the south, the lacy climbing fern known as Lipeao (ลิเภา), or Lygodium polystachyum Wall. ex T.Moore, weaves a distinctive presence through local culture, traditional healing, and rural livelihoods. Revered under many regional names such as Kud Khreu, Kud Gong, Kud Ngaod Ngaed, Kud Pae, Kud Yong, or Pak Teen Tokto in the north, and Leh Phao, Lipeao Yong, or Yaa Yai Phao in the south, this ancient fern connects the tapestry of Thai herbal wisdom with modern scientific inquiry. Today, as a new generation advocates for evidence-based natural health, interest in Lipeao’s medicinal reputation is being reawakened—and scrutinized—for its healing promise and scientific validity.