🍈 The Fruit More Treasured Than Cordyceps — Vietnam Has It in Abundance, Yet Few Know to Eat It

Across the globe, certain fruits are hailed for their exceptional health benefits, earning nicknames like “longevity fruit” or “natural medicine.” One such fruit is so highly valued that it’s considered even more precious than cordyceps — the famed medicinal fungus known for boosting immunity and slowing aging. Surprisingly, this fruit grows abundantly in Vietnam, yet many locals still overlook it or treat it as a weed.

🌿 What Is This Mysterious Fruit?

While the exact fruit may vary depending on region and source, candidates often include:

• Gac fruit (Momordica cochinchinensis): Rich in beta-carotene and lycopene, known for promoting eye health and reducing inflammation.

• Wild pennywort (Centella asiatica): Used in traditional medicine for detoxification and brain health.

• Wild fig or forest mulberry: Packed with antioxidants and fiber.

These fruits grow naturally in Vietnam’s countryside, often without the need for fertilizers or pesticides — making them clean, organic, and sustainable.

🌍 Why the World Values It More Than Cordyceps

• Nutritional density: Some wild fruits contain more antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals than cordyceps.

• Medicinal properties: Used in traditional remedies for liver health, skin rejuvenation, and anti-aging.

• Export potential: Highly sought after in countries like Japan and South Korea, where they’re considered superfoods.

• Low cost, high value: Unlike cordyceps, which are expensive and rare, these fruits are accessible and affordable.

🇻🇳 Why Vietnamese People Still Pull Them Out

• Lack of awareness: Many locals don’t recognize their health benefits or culinary uses.

• Cultural habits: Preference for familiar fruits like mango, lychee, or dragon fruit.

• Misidentification: Some wild fruits resemble weeds or toxic plants, leading to caution or removal.

• Urbanization: As cities expand, wild-growing areas are cleared, reducing access to these natural treasures.

🧠 What Can Be Done?

To preserve and promote these native superfruits, Vietnam could:

• Educate communities on their nutritional value and safe preparation.

• Incorporate them into local cuisine through recipes, juices, and snacks.

• Support farmers and foragers who cultivate or harvest them sustainably.

• Encourage research and documentation to distinguish beneficial species from harmful ones.

🌟 Bonus: How to Use These Fruits

• Gac fruit: Make gac rice (xôi gấc), smoothies, or extract oil for skin care.

• Pennywort: Blend into detox drinks or add to salads.

• Wild figs: Eat fresh, dry for snacks, or use in herbal teas.

By rediscovering and embracing these overlooked fruits, Vietnam can unlock a treasure trove of health benefits, economic opportunities, and cultural pride. Sometimes, the most powerful remedies are growing right under our feet — we just need to recognize them.