#TerminaliaCitrina

In the lush forests of Southeast Asia, the fruit known as สมอดีงู—also called สมอเหลี่ยม or สมอหมึก—has long been a trusted remedy in Thai traditional medicine. Scientifically named Terminalia citrina Roxb., this member of the Combretaceae family sits at the intersection of ancestral wisdom and modern science. Today, researchers are exploring how ancient practices can inform new medical discoveries, while underscoring the importance of careful, evidence-based use.

Thai herbal practitioners value the five-angled, slightly spherical fruit for a range of ailments. Traditional healers decoct or infuse the fruit to create a mildly astringent liquid believed to cool the body and rebalance internal harmony. Across nearby regions—India, Bangladesh, and Indonesia—related Terminalia fruits are used in multi-herbal blends to treat diarrhea, abdominal pain, and general cleansing. The Thai approach reflects a broader Southeast Asian philosophy: health depends on equilibrium and respectful use of nature’s resources.

Nestled in the verdant forests of Southeast Asia and cherished in traditional Thai medicine, the fruit known as สมอดีงู (pronounced “sammo dee ngu” and also called สมอเหลี่ยม or สมอหมึก) has served generations as a trusted herbal remedy. Scientifically recognized as Terminalia citrina Roxb., this remarkable plant—belonging to the Combretaceae family—stands at the intriguing crossroads of folk wisdom and emerging biomedical science. Today, as the world looks to nature for wellness, สมอดีงู offers an inspiring example of how ancient practices can ignite new scientific inquiries—while underscoring the need to balance reverence for tradition with careful, evidence-based use.