Hairy Basil or Maenglak

Benefits: Relieves flatulence and coughs. Increases breast milk for mothers. It can stop dermatosis and bleeding from the gums and teeth. The leaves – which contain Vitamins B2 and C, calcium and iron – can also be used as natural laxative. Use: Young leaves are preferred. They are served fresh as an accompaniment to kanom jeen, and rice vermicelli. Thanks to their spiciness, they are often added to gaeng liang and northeastern-style soups like gaeng hed and gaeng normai, as well as curries. The leaves can also be mixed with syrup in a refreshing drink that helps clear the throat and settles your heart rate.