Euodia Lepta (Ba Chạc) – A Medicinal Citrus Relative Widely Used in Traditional Eastern Medicine

By Life & Health – September 9, 2025

In traditional Eastern medicine, Euodia Lepta—commonly known in Vietnam as Cây Ba Chạc—is regarded as a valuable medicinal herb with numerous therapeutic benefits. Despite its long history of use, this plant remains unfamiliar to many people. Understanding its properties and applications can help you make the most of its healing potential.

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1. What Is Cây Ba Chạc?

Cây Ba Chạc is a well-known medicinal plant native to the mountainous regions of northern and central Vietnam. It also goes by several local names such as Dầu Dấu, Bí Bái, Mạt, or Chè Đắng, depending on the region.

Scientifically classified as Euodia Lepta Merr., Ba Chạc belongs to the Rutaceae (citrus) family, the same plant family as oranges and lemons.

This is a woody plant that can grow up to 4–5 meters tall, often found in both forested hills and lowland areas. It thrives naturally in provinces like Quảng Nam, Lâm Đồng, Hòa Bình, and Sơn La, and can also be found in parts of China and the Philippines.

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2. Medicinal Parts and Preparation

In traditional medicine, almost every part of the Ba Chạc tree—including its roots, stems, leaves, and branches—can be used for therapeutic purposes.

• The roots and leaves are the most commonly used parts in herbal remedies.

• The stems are typically used fresh, while the roots are sliced thinly, sun-dried, and stored for later use.

Modern pharmacological studies have identified active compounds in Ba Chạc that include alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils, which are believed to contribute to its anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and antimicrobial properties.

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3. Key Health Benefits of Euodia Lepta

Traditional and modern research both highlight several health-promoting effects of Ba Chạc:

• Detoxification and cooling effect: helps clear internal heat and remove toxins from the body.

• Pain relief: used in traditional medicine to reduce muscle pain, joint stiffness, and inflammation.

• Anti-itch and skin-soothing properties: effective in treating rashes, eczema, and other skin irritations.

• Regulation of blood lipids and pressure: modern studies suggest Ba Chạc may help lower cholesterol and stabilize blood pressure.

• Antibacterial and antimicrobial action: Chinese studies have shown that it can inhibit the growth of Shigella, a bacteria responsible for intestinal infections.

Because of its versatile properties, Ba Chạc has been included in various traditional remedies for dermatological, digestive, gynecological, and musculoskeletal conditions.

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4. Common Traditional Remedies Using Ba Chạc

4.1. For Postpartum Women

This remedy helps new mothers regain strength, improve appetite, and stimulate milk production.

Option 1: Boil about 10 grams of Ba Chạc roots in water and drink it as tea daily.
Option 2: Boil 16 grams of Ba Chạc leaves in 6 bowls of water until only half remains. Divide into three portions and drink in the morning, noon, and evening for 7 consecutive days.

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4.2. For Skin Irritations and Rashes

Use 50–100 grams of fresh Ba Chạc leaves, rinse them thoroughly, and boil them with 4–5 liters of water for about an hour.

Let the water cool to a comfortable temperature, then bathe or soak affected skin areas. The leftover plant residue can be rubbed gently on itchy or infected skin. Repeat daily until symptoms subside.

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4.3. For Joint and Muscle Pain

For external use, combine fresh Ba Chạc leaves with mistletoe leaves, wash and crush them together, then apply the paste directly to painful joints once a day for 7–10 days.

For internal use, prepare a herbal tonic:

• 12g Thiên Niên Kiện (Homalomena occulta)

• 10g Rễ Bưởi Bung (Mallotus barbatus root)

• 8g Dành Dành (Gardenia jasminoides)

Dry the ingredients, slice them, and soak them in rice wine (30–40° alcohol). The longer you soak, the better. Drink two small cups daily for 10 days alongside the topical treatment.

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4.4. For Cold and Flu Prevention

Combine the following herbs:

• 15g Ba Chạc leaves

• 30g Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

• 15g Bidens pilosa (Đơn buốt)

• 15g Tridax procumbens (Cúc chỉ thiên)

Boil all ingredients in 6 bowls of water over low heat for about 30 minutes, until the water reduces by half. Divide into two servings per day for one week to strengthen the immune system and prevent seasonal colds.

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4.5. For Menstrual Regulation

Boil 12g of Ba Chạc roots with 6 bowls of water until only half remains. Divide into three portions to drink daily.
For best results, start taking this herbal tea 15 days before the start of your menstrual cycle, continuing for at least one week.

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5. Important Notes and Safety Tips

While Ba Chạc offers numerous health benefits, it’s essential to use it responsibly:

• Always consult a licensed doctor or herbal practitioner before beginning any herbal treatment.

• Avoid using excessive doses or combining with unknown herbs.

• Pregnant women, young children, and people with chronic illnesses should exercise extra caution.

• Herbal medicine is supportive, not a substitute for modern medical care.

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Conclusion

Cây Ba Chạc (Euodia Lepta) is a remarkable herbal plant from the citrus family, valued for its detoxifying, pain-relieving, and immune-boosting effects. Its versatility allows it to be used in remedies for skin conditions, digestive health, bone pain, and women’s wellness.

However, as with all traditional remedies, professional guidance is essential to ensure both safety and effectiveness. With proper use, this humble forest herb can truly serve as a natural ally for a healthier life.

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✅ Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice. Always consult healthcare professionals before starting any herbal treatment.