#Thanaka

กระแจะ, also known as พญายา, ขะแจะ, or ตุมตัง, is a tree whose bark, stem, and wood have long been central to Southeast Asian healing traditions. In Thailand, the name กระแจะ evokes centuries of folk wisdom, aesthetic rituals, and everyday remedies. Today, researchers are spotlighting its phytochemicals for beauty, health, and disease prevention, linking heritage with modern science for Thai readers.

Thai healers have long used the pale, aromatic wood of กระแจะ to treat skin conditions, fevers, and inflammation. Thai herbal texts and university summaries note that the inner wood and heartwood are often combined with other traditional herbs or used alone in topical and oral preparations. These preparations have served as deodorants, remedies for skin irritation, and even components in historical court formulations where fragrance and healing intersect.

Known by many names across the region—กระแจะ, พญายา, ขะแจะ, ตุมตัง, and others—Hesperethusa crenulata is a tree whose bark, stem, and wood have long been treasured in traditional Southeast Asian medicine. In Thailand, the engraved word “กระแจะ” conjures centuries of healing practices, folk wisdom, and even romance, as this herbal ingredient not only soothes physical ailments but is often mentioned in the poetry and cultural traditions of the central plains, the north, and northeast. Today, กระแจะ’s ancient legacy is finding new life as research teams shine the spotlight on its potent phytochemicals and their promising applications for beauty, health, and disease prevention.