Malabar Spinach: A Thai Traditional Herbal Treasure Malabar spinach (Basella alba Linn.) has long been a part of Thai households and culture. This traditional Thai herb is highly beneficial for health. However, despite its benefits, there is a superstitious belief associated with it — that consuming it may weaken the power of magical spells or charms. As such, practitioners of occult rituals often avoid dishes containing this plant. This is mainly due to its slimy texture, which is considered inauspicious in such beliefs.
In reality, Malabar spinach is an ancient medicinal herb with notable health benefits. It has been used in traditional remedies since ancient times.
Today, Malabar spinach is still widely used in Thai cuisine, especially in northern-style soups and curries. If you’re interested in this herb, let’s explore its characteristics and benefits.
Introduction to Malabar Spinach – An Ancient Medicinal Herb
Malabar spinach is scientifically known as Basella alba Linn. There are two main types: the green-stemmed variety with green leaves and white flowers, known as white Malabar spinach, and the reddish-purple stem, leaves, and flowers variety, called red Malabar spinach. There are also other types, such as Japanese Malabar spinach (Tsuru-Murasaki).
Characteristics of the Plant
Malabar spinach is a climbing plant with thick, heart-shaped, slightly succulent leaves. The stems are round and fleshy, and both leaves and stems have a smooth, glossy surface. Each leaf is about 5 cm wide and 7 cm long. When crushed, it releases a clear, slippery mucilage. The flowers are small, white or pinkish-white, and grow in clusters.
Propagation
The most common propagation method is by seeds. The seeds are dried and either planted in sand trays or directly into soil. After watering and germination, the young seedlings can be transplanted.
Culinary Uses
The young shoots are most commonly used for cooking. They can be made into soups, curries, or even used as a medicinal herb. Malabar spinach is very affordable, usually starting at 30 baht.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
Yes, Malabar spinach can be eaten raw — commonly served with chili dips or fermented fish sauces in southern Thailand. It’s also used in stir-fries, soups, and sour curries. A 100-gram serving provides only 21 kilocalories.
It is rich in fiber, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin B3, vitamin C, and niacin. It can help treat urinary tract infections, painful urination, constipation, bloating, abscesses, and fever. The leaves have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties and can treat ringworm.
Medicinal Use of the Flowers
The flowers can be used to treat various ailments, including skin diseases, dandruff, abdominal cramps, and digestive issues. They also have a mild laxative effect. The fruit contains anthocyanins, which can be used as natural food coloring or in desserts.
Natural Prebiotic Booster
According to herbal experts at Phra Ya Aphai Phubet Hospital in Prachinburi, Malabar spinach increases prebiotics, improving digestion and detoxifying the body naturally, making it ideal for chemical-free detox regimens.
It helps boost immunity, alleviate allergic reactions, reduce cholesterol and high blood pressure, aid in colon cancer prevention, and stimulate appetite.
Treats Gastric Issues
This herb can be consumed by people of all ages. The plant’s mucilage helps protect the stomach, kidneys, and liver. It is especially effective in treating ulcers and preventing kidney toxicity. It also prevents kidney stone formation, particularly calcium oxalate crystals, which become more common with age.
Conclusion
Malabar spinach is a time-honored Thai herb, used for healing and nourishing the body. It’s easy to eat and even delicious for those who enjoy herbs. It can be consumed fresh or cooked in dishes like omelets or soups. It grows rapidly and is easy to propagate. However, as a fast-growing climber, it should be pruned to prevent it from overtaking gardens or creating hiding spots for pests or dangerous animals.