Common Names: Persicaria minor, Pygmy smartweed, Small water pepper, Swamp willow weed, Kesum
Scientific Names: Persicaria minor
Persicaria minor, a traditional herbal remedy native to South East Asia, particularly Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, is renowned for its medicinal and culinary uses. It's suggested to possess anticancer, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, with some evidence indicating its potential in reducing high blood pressure. This edible and aromatic herb is known as "kesum" in Malaysia and Indonesia, commonly used in various culinary dishes such as salads (ulam), laksa, nasi kerabu, asam pedas, and tom yam. Additionally, it's utilized for teas and as an aroma spice additive. Moreover, Persicaria minor has a history of use in traditional medicine for post-natal tonics, digestive ailments, and topical applications. The plant's oil is employed in aromatherapy and for treating dandruff.