The Vối tree is one of the familiar medicinal herbs commonly used for making tea or as a remedy. So, what benefits does the Vối tree offer? What considerations should be noted when using it?

Characteristics of the Vối Tree

The Vối tree, also known as the Trâm Nắp, belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is scientifically named Cleistocalyx operculatus. It originates from the tropical regions of Asia. In Vietnam, it is commonly found in certain areas of the northern lowlands and midlands, as well as in the Central Highlands and Đồng Nai Province. The Vối tree often grows wild along the banks of lakes and streams, and it is cultivated in some regions for its leaves and buds, which are used to make tea or herbal infusions.

Identifying Features of the Vối Tree:

1. Types: There are two varieties of the Vối tree:
   • Vối Nếp: Smaller leaves with a yellow-green color.
   • Vối Tẻ: Larger, diamond-shaped leaves that are dark green.
2. Growth: The tree is woody, typically reaching a height of about 5 to 6 meters, with a trunk diameter of around 50 cm. The bark is dark brown or black, and the branches are round and smooth, often exhibiting vertical cracks.
3. Leaves: The leaves are oval-shaped, pointed at the tip, and have a thick, hard texture. As they age, the undersides of the leaves develop many black spots and emit a pleasant fragrance, with a slightly bitter and astringent taste.
4. Flowers: The Vối tree produces flowers that grow in clusters in the leaf axils, with each cluster containing about 3 to 5 white flowers. The flowering season occurs from May to July.

What Are the Benefits of the Vối Tree?

Although the Vối tree has been widely used by people for a long time, not everyone fully understands its benefits. Here are the health advantages that the Vối tree offers:

1. Supports Digestive Health:
   • The tannins in the Vối tree have antibacterial properties that protect the stomach lining from harmful agents. Additionally, Vối leaf tea can stimulate the stomach to secrete digestive juices, helping to reduce bloating and gas.
2. Supports Gout Treatment:
   • The leaves and buds of the Vối tree can aid in digesting fatty foods and have diuretic effects, which help to eliminate uric acid, thereby reducing the risk of gout.
3. Reduces Blood Lipids:
   • The Vối tree is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly beta-sitosterol, which helps regulate cholesterol metabolism in the blood. This can prevent lipid-related diseases.
4. Treats Skin Conditions and Ulcers:
   • Many people brew Vối leaves or buds for drinking, but few know that the brewed Vối water can be used for bathing or soaking to treat skin diseases, scalp issues, and ulcers. The tannins in Vối help with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, soothing skin irritations.
5. Supports Colitis Treatment

Vối tree water can help alleviate abdominal pain and discomfort caused by chronic colitis due to its rich nutritional content, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties from essential oils. You can prepare and drink Vối leaf or bud tea daily.

Additional Benefits of the Vối Tree

               Supports Diabetes Treatment:

• • • The buds of the Vối tree are rich in flavonoids, which help in treating and preventing diabetes while minimizing potential complications. Regular consumption of Vối bud tea aids in controlling blood sugar levels and protects pancreatic beta cells from damage.
  • Quenching Thirst:
    • • Vối leaf tea has a slower detoxification effect compared to plain water, while being rich in nutrients and vitamins. This helps in detoxifying the body and enhances the excretion of toxins. Therefore, using Vối tea can prevent dehydration and reduce thirst, especially during hot summer days.
  • Burn Treatment:
    • The bark of the Vối tree can be used to treat burns, alleviating pain, reducing blisters, and preventing fluid leakage and infection. After removing the dry outer bark, mash the bark and mix it with a little cooled boiled water. Apply the mixture to the burned area and let it dry naturally.
  • Supports Liver Health:
    • The roots of the Vối tree are also used by many to treat hepatitis and improve jaundice symptoms. Consuming about 200 grams of Vối roots boiled in water daily can help protect liver cells from harmful agents.
    • 

 Some Important Considerations When Using the Vối Tree

After understanding the benefits of the Vối tree, it’s essential to be aware of certain precautions to ensure safe usage:

     1  Moderation is Key: Due to its strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, the Vối tree should be used in moderation to avoid harming beneficial bacteria in the body.

   2  Not for the Weak: Individuals who are very thin, in poor health, or suffering from weakness should avoid using the Vối tree.

   3  Daily Consumption Limit: It is advisable to consume only about one pot of Vối tea per day to prevent negative effects on kidney function.

   4  Dilution is Important: Prepare Vối tea with a diluted mixture. Avoid using overly concentrated tea, as it can stimulate digestion too much, increase intestinal motility, and lead to diarrhea or fatigue.

  5  Consult a Specialist: Before using the Vối tree for any specific health issue, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.

    6 Storage and Timing: Do not store Vối leaf tea overnight. Avoid drinking it on an empty stomach or immediately after meals.

    7 Caution for Vulnerable Groups: Be careful when using the Vối tree for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, young children, or individuals with underlying health conditions.

    8 Complementary Use: Patients should combine the use of the Vối tree with a balanced diet and appropriate exercise. It should not completely replace prescribed treatments from healthcare professionals.

   9  Monitor for Adverse Effects: If any unusual symptoms occur or if there is no improvement in health during use, discontinue consumption and seek medical assistance immediately if necessary.