ผักหมูฮ้อง (Pak Moo Hong) / Chaya – Tree Spinach
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, known as Chaya or Tree Spinach, is a perennial leafy shrub native to Central America and now widely cultivated in Thailand. It is famous for its nutritional value, being rich in protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. The leaves are also used in Thai traditional medicine for detoxification and blood circulation support.
Botanical Characteristics
Chaya grows 2–4 meters tall, with a soft, woody stem and large, deeply lobed leaves resembling those of papaya. The leaves exude a milky sap and should be cooked before consumption to neutralize natural cyanogenic compounds. The plant is drought-tolerant and thrives in tropical climates.
Use in Thai Traditional Medicine
In Thai herbal practice, ผักหมูฮ้อง is considered a cooling plant (ยาเย็น), helping to clear heat, detoxify the blood, and strengthen the liver. It is often recommended to improve vitality and digestion, especially for those with “internal heat” symptoms such as skin irritation or fatigue.
Nutritional and Culinary Uses
The leaves are commonly boiled or steamed and eaten as a green vegetable, often paired with chili paste or incorporated into soups. They are known for maintaining their shape and texture after cooking and are praised for supporting recovery and general health.
Preparation Notes
Leaves must be cooked for at least 10–15 minutes to destroy cyanogenic glycosides before consumption. Once cooked, the leaves are completely safe and highly nutritious.
Cultivation Notes
Chaya grows easily from stem cuttings and prefers full sun with moderate watering. It can be harvested continuously, as the plant produces new shoots year-round. In the KBE Thai Medicinal Herb Garden, Chaya is cultivated as both a functional food and a detoxifying medicinal green.
Historical Context
Originally from the Yucatán region of Mexico, Chaya spread through Asia as a sustainable food source. Its adoption into Thai herbal systems reflects both nutritional wisdom and the adaptation of global plants into local healing traditions.
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.
