หญ้าหนวดแมว (Ya Nuat Maew)
Family: Rubiaceae
Hedyotis corymbosa (syn. Oldenlandia corymbosa), known in Thai as หญ้าหนวดแมว (Ya Nuat Maew) and commonly called Diamond Flower, is a small annual herb used widely in Thai and Ayurvedic medicine. Despite its delicate appearance, it is highly valued as a detoxifying and cooling plant, often included in herbal teas and fever-reducing tonics.
Botanical Characteristics
This small creeping herb grows 10–30 cm high with slender, opposite leaves that are linear-lanceolate and bright green. Tiny white to pale purple flowers appear at the tips of stems. It thrives in moist, sunny areas, often found along paths or paddy edges in tropical Asia.
Use in Thai Traditional Medicine
หญ้าหนวดแมว is used to clear internal heat and promote urinary flow. Decoctions of the entire plant are taken for fever, liver support, kidney cleansing, and to relieve inflammation of the urinary tract. It is also used for skin eruptions and as part of cleansing regimens after illness. In traditional blends, it is paired with lemongrass, pandan, and licorice root for balancing temperature and detoxifying the body.
Preparation & Dosage
The plant is typically boiled fresh (10–15 g per 500 ml water) and consumed as a mild herbal tea up to twice daily. Dried material may also be powdered and mixed with honey for tonic use.
Cultivation Notes
Hedyotis corymbosa prefers full sun and moist soil but adapts easily to container growth. It regenerates quickly from seed or root division and makes an excellent groundcover herb in tropical gardens.
Historical Context
Referenced in both Thai and Ayurvedic materia medica, this herb has long been associated with cleansing rituals and post-illness recovery. It remains an important ingredient in traditional detoxifying formulas throughout Southeast Asia.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational and historical purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal preparation.
