What are the benefits of drinking fresh lá vối (Cleistocalyx operculatus) water?
- Oct 31, 2025
- 2 min read
According to traditional medicine practitioner Tran Dang Tai, lá vối (vối leaves) are commonly used as a daily beverage.
Modern medical studies show that lá vối contains many antibiotic substances capable of eliminating bacteria such as Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Pneumococcus, Salmonella, and Bacillus subtilis. The leaves also contain triterpenic acid and very little tannin.
In traditional medicine, lá vối is used to aid digestion, strengthen the spleen, lower blood lipids, provide antioxidant effects, promote urination, detoxify the body, and support diabetes treatment. Folk remedies also use lá vối to clean wounds and treat skin conditions such as scabies, impetigo, and boils.
According to modern research, drinking lá vối water daily brings the following effects:
Supports digestion: Lá vối has antibacterial properties, stimulates gastric secretions, aids digestion, and reduces bloating, fullness, and indigestion.
Helps manage gout: Drinking lá vối water promotes urination and enhances the excretion of uric acid from the body, thereby reducing the risk of gout and helping remove excess fat and oil from food.
Reduces blood lipids: The leaves contain vitamins, minerals, and beta-sitosterol, a compound that helps regulate cholesterol metabolism and prevent lipid disorders.
Supports treatment of skin diseases: The tannins in lá vối have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe irritated skin caused by infections or dermatitis.
Eases colitis: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in lá vối help reduce pain caused by chronic colitis.
Good for diabetics: Lá vối contains flavonoids that help control blood sugar levels and protect pancreatic beta cells from damage. However, people with diabetes should not replace prescribed medication with lá vối water.
Detoxifies the body: Lá vối has cooling, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory properties, helping the body purify and eliminate toxins more effectively.
Although lá vối is beneficial, long-term continuous use is not advisable, as it may cause unwanted side effects. Like all medicinal herbs, lá vối should be used for a limited period. It is recommended to drink it for about one month, then stop for a while before continuing.
Precautions when drinking lá vối water:
The main effect of lá vối is to support health; it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Always consult a doctor for specific health issues.
Do not overuse it. It should only be consumed in moderate amounts, similar to a pot of tea, instead of replacing all daily drinking water, to avoid affecting the body’s excretion system.
Drinking lá vối water right after meals may reduce nutrient absorption.
Avoid drinking it on an empty stomach, as it can increase intestinal activity, cause fatigue, dizziness, or low energy.
Pregnant women and people with existing medical conditions should consult a doctor before drinking it regularly to avoid side effects.
Using lá vối water should be combined with a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet to effectively improve overall health.
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