An aromatic leaf loved for its sweet, vanilla-like scent.
| Thai name | ใบเตย |
|---|---|
| Species | Pandanus amaryllifolius |
| Family | Pandanaceae |
| Part used | Leaf |
| Aroma | Sweet and mellow, like vanilla |
What is pandan leaf?
Pandan leaf (Pandanus amaryllifolius) is an aromatic plant widely loved across tropical Asia, called "bai toey (ใบเตย)" in Thailand. Its sweet, mellow scent is used to flavor sweets, drinks, and cooking, and it has long been used in Thai traditional medicine as well. PROSEA records the decoction of the leaves as having been used as a sedative for restlessness, and as a relaxing soak. The “cooked-rice” note at the heart of its aroma is 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline.
Steaming pandan leaf in op samun phrai fills the room with a sweet aroma. In contrast to the spicier herbs, its mellow scent has long been enjoyed.
Used to scent desserts paired with coconut milk, or brewed as tea. Also enjoyed in herbal baths wrapped in its sweet aroma.
Note: this page introduces the traditions and culture around the plant. It does not guarantee any effect.
📖 Read the Journal article on this herb →