Cladophora sp
Khai, Kaipen
wikimedia· cc-by-sa
Wikimedia Commons - Kristian Peters https://www.korseby.net/outer/flora/algae/index.html
wikimedia· cc-by-sa
Wikimedia Commons - Ryan Hodnett
Description
A freshwater algae in the family Cladophoraceae native to tropical stagnant waters of the Mekong in Laos, sold in local markets.
This description is brief — help expand it
Edible Uses
Fresh algae is added to soups and stews for flavor. It is also dried and pressed into sheets with finely sliced vegetables and sesame seeds, then grilled or briefly deep fried.
Traditional Uses
The fresh algae is added to soups and stews for flavour. It is also dried and pressed into sheets along with finely sliced vegetables and sprinkled with sesame seeds. The dried product is grilled or briefly deep fried.
Medicinal Uses
Cladophora has pharmacological uses as medication. Cladophora is purported to have antimicrobial, antihistamine, antiviral, antioxidant, anti-sclerosis, anti-inflammatory and weight loss properties as well as secondary metabolites and bioactive components that have uses in diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and serves as a protection from parasites. However, as of December 2023, Cladophora has yet to be utilized commercially as a pharmacological agent.
Distribution
A tropical plant. It grows in the stagnant waters of the Mekong in Laos.
Where It Grows
Asia, Indochina, Laos, SE Asia,
Other Information
It is sold in local markets.
References (1)
- Facciola, S., 1998, Cornucopia 2: a Source Book of Edible Plants. Kampong Publications, p 258
