The plant known as "Bai Du Cao" or "Qian Qu Cao" is a wild plant with medicinal and edible uses. The whole plant can be used for medicinal purposes, and the tender stems can be consumed as food. It has the effect of clearing heat and cooling the blood. Let's learn more about the medicinal uses and cultivation methods of Bai Du Cao!
【The Value of Bai Du Cao】
In ancient times, people used to make dried vegetables out of Bai Du Cao for winter and spring. They would blanch the fresh vegetables in boiling water and then sun-dry them for storage. When consumed, they would be rehydrated and can be stir-fried or used to make soup, giving them a unique flavor.
This vegetable has the effect of clearing heat and cooling the blood, making it an excellent summer vegetable. It also contains iron and other components. Cosmetics made from Bai Du Cao and other ingredients can reduce congestion, prevent dry skin, and protect against external irritations, providing beauty benefits.
Bai Du Cao is a plant that thrives near water bodies and can be found throughout China. Its tender stems and leaves can be harvested and enjoyed as a delicious wild vegetable, providing not only vitamins but also disease prevention.
In rural areas, Bai Du Cao is regarded as a valuable medicinal herb. When there are external injuries and bleeding, farmers would directly apply crushed Bai Du Cao leaves to the wounds. It not only has excellent detoxification properties but also acts as a hemostatic and astringent agent.
【Cultivation Methods of Bai Du Cao】
Bai Du Cao prefers warm and well-ventilated environments, and it thrives under sunlight. It also prefers moisture. Nowadays, wild Bai Du Cao can be found in various parts of northern China, mostly growing near swamps and humid ditches. It is also cultivated on small slopes along the ditches in parks, creating visually appealing patches of Bai Du Cao.
Bai Du Cao has a strong vitality and requires minimal management. It is usually planted in large patches, with parks being the most common cultivation sites. For potted plants, a hole-less flower pot with a diameter of about 50 centimeters can be used. Fill it with fertile pond mud, filling the pot about 2/3 full, and plant 5 stems per pot.
If you want to create a miniature potted plant, you can choose a pot with a diameter of about 20 centimeters. During the growth period, regularly trim the plant to promote dwarfing and branching. Keep the pot moist during the growth period. If you choose to cultivate it in a courtyard, there is no need to worry about it freezing during winter. Bai Du Cao has strong cold resistance and generally does not require insulation measures.
For outdoor cultivation, Bai Du Cao can naturally overwinter without protection. It is generally recommended to divide the plants every two years. In a well-ventilated and well-lit environment, there are usually no pests or diseases. However, when planted too densely, there may be red spider mites, which can be controlled with regular insecticides.
