Agasta – ดอกแค: The Healing Power of Thailand’s Hummingbird Tree

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Discover the gentle power of Agasta, Thailand’s Hummingbird Tree, in enhancing wellness & soil fertility. At HuaHinServices, we celebrate Hua Hin’s organic garden traditions—holistic, sustainable, and rooted in Thai herbal wisdom.

Agasta (Hummingbird tree) — ดอกแค (Dok Khae) — Sesbania grandiflora

Agasta (Hummingbird Tree) — ดอกแค (Dok Khae)
Sesbania grandiflora is a fast-growing, soft-wooded tree widely used in traditional Thai cuisine and herbal medicine. Every part of the tree — flowers, leaves, bark, and roots — has health applications, especially in Thai and Ayurvedic traditions.

🌼 Health Benefits and Medicinal Uses

1. Flowers (ดอกแค)

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Contain flavonoids and polyphenols that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

  • Traditional Uses in Thai Medicine:

    • Used in แกงส้มดอกแค (Kaeng Som Dok Khae) to relieve indigestion and improve appetite.

    • Believed to balance body heat, especially during the hot season.

  • Mild Laxative: Promotes gentle bowel movements.

2. Leaves

  • Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory: Traditionally applied to skin infections or taken as a tea to reduce fever.

  • Used as a Tonic: In some Thai communities, leaf decoctions are consumed for general wellness.

3. Bark

  • Astringent and Anti-diarrheal: Bark infusions are used for treating diarrhea and dysentery.

  • Oral Care: Decoctions may be used as a natural mouthwash to reduce gum inflammation.

4. Roots

  • Digestive Aid: Often prepared as an infusion to support digestion.

  • Respiratory Support: Traditionally used in herbal mixes for coughs and bronchitis.

🧘‍♀️ Holistic and Environmental Benefits

  • Promotes biodiversity — flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and pollinators.

  • Often used in organic gardens to fix nitrogen in the soil and improve fertility.

⚠️ Precautions

  • Flowers should be cooked before consumption to reduce bitterness and avoid stomach discomfort.

  • Pregnant women and individuals with allergies should consult with a professional before using it medicinally.

This humble tree — common in Thai home gardens — is a beautiful example of how traditional food and herbal wisdom are naturally intertwined.


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