Dongshan Story House Introduction
The flower of the river banana, known as "Yuet Tiao," has a profound significance to our company's founder, Mr. He Yong-Wei. In the 40s of the Republic of China, before he attended school, he harvested river bananas to earn money. The whole plant can be utilized: the leaves can be used for wrapping sticky rice dumplings and as food ingredients, and can also be extracted for processed materials; the leaf sheaths can be made into ropes and were historically used by fishermen to create nets; the flowers can serve as food spices; the seeds, also known as "Tuzha Ren," are a primary ingredient for medicinal candies; the tubers can also be used as food spices and traditional Chinese medicinal materials. The river banana has a strong vitality, able to grow in the harshest environments; it can be seen in mountainous areas and by the seaside. Every part of it has value and utility, much like us Taiwanese who take root, are smart, diligent, and wise, yet often lack recognition. With the advancements in technology, the use of CO2 supercritical extraction technology has revealed various precious components within the river banana. Huashi Company has accumulated over 30 years of experience in developing daily essentials and skincare products by investing in supercritical water extraction and establishing cleanroom production and R&D facilities. Collaborating with National Chiayi University, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Chia Innovativity Center, and the Foundation of Metal Industry, we are developing a series of river banana products or products that leverage various local specialty plants, helping the public to understand the ecological stories of these unique plants, integrating innovative economy into everyday life, and establishing a healthy, sustainable, and vibrant lifestyle, which led to the birth of the River Banana Story Museum.
