Water Dropwort

미나리 (水芹) · Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC.

Heat-clearing, spirit-nourishing food herb Neutral (some sources: cold) Sweet Liver, Bladder

NatureNeutral (some sources: cold)

TasteSweet

MeridiansLiver, Bladder

Part usedWhole plant (stem and leaf)

FamilyApiaceae

CategoryHeat-clearing, spirit-nourishing food herb

Find by concern: Hangover Thirst

Overview

Water dropwort (minari) is a familiar spring vegetable in Korean cooking, especially in maeuntang and various namul dishes, and the Donguibogam records it as nourishing the spirit and essence, treating post-alcohol heat-toxicity, and even helping certain jaundice patterns.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑

性平一云寒, 味甘, 無毒. 止煩渴, 養神益精, 令人肥健. 治酒後熱毒, 利大小腸. 療女子崩中帶下, 小兒暴熱.

Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)

TranslationIts nature is neutral (some say cold), its taste sweet, and it is non-toxic. It stops vexing thirst, nourishes the spirit and boosts essence, and makes the body plump and strong. It treats post-alcohol heat-toxicity and benefits the large and small intestines. It treats women's flooding and vaginal discharge, and sudden heat in children.

Traditional functions

Nourishes the spirit and essence
Resolves post-alcohol heat-toxicity
Stops thirst
Benefits the intestines

Traditional applications

Post-drinking heat discomfort
General thirst
Abnormal vaginal discharge (classical use)
Sudden fever in children (classical use)

Traditional preparation

Eaten fresh, blanched as namul, or cooked in soups and stews (e.g. maeuntang); classically also pickled or eaten raw.

Cautions

Caution: The Donguibogam also notes water dropwort treats five kinds of jaundice, though modern use should focus on its role as a food; a mild vegetable overall. Consult a professional for medicinal-strength use, especially during pregnancy or for children.

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same minari used in maeuntang (spicy fish stew)?

Yes — the same plant, and the Donguibogam already records its use for resolving post-alcohol heat-toxicity, matching its familiar role as a fresh, cooling addition to hearty stews.

What did the Donguibogam say water dropwort treats besides hangovers?

It lists nourishing the spirit and essence, stopping thirst, certain women's conditions, sudden fever in children, and several types of jaundice.

Sources

동의보감 탕액편 (원문) — 한문 원문 발췌 — 한의학고전DB 탕액편 대조 검증 완료 (DATA-001)
한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 국역 참조 후 자체 재서술 (LEGAL-001)

DonguiHub is an educational and informational platform about the history and tradition of Korean medicine. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about health conditions and before using any herb.