The thia la hoa go plant. (Source: VAST)

Researchers at the Institute of Ecology and Biological Resources under the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST) discovered that both plants have falcarindiol, a potent anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory compound, which can be used to promote cancer cell deaths in the lungs, breast, liver and prostate.

Locals soak the roots of the plants in rice wine and also apply it to wounds. The plants, called “thia la hoa go” in Vietnamese, grow at more than 1,000 meters above sea level. 

The research team has developed biological and ecological data for the two plants at Bat Dai Son Nature Reserve in Quan Ba district.