Shell Ginger Story House

Alpinia speciosa (shell ginger) holds deep significance for Mr. He Yung-Wei, the company's founder. In the 1950s (ROC calendar 40s), even before attending school, he would cut shell ginger to sell for money. The entire shell ginger plant can be utilized. Its leaves can be used for wrapping Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings) and as food ingredients, and can also be extracted for processing materials. The leaf sheaths can be used as material for ropes; in early days, fishermen used them for making fishing nets. The flowers can be used as food spices. The seeds, also known as 'Tu Sharen,' are a primary ingredient for Jintan (a type of traditional medicinal pellet). The rhizomes can also be used as food spices and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Shell ginger possesses strong vitality, capable of growing even in harsh environments; its presence can be seen on rural cliffs and by the seaside. The entire plant holds value for creative utilization, much like Taiwanese people who take root wherever they are, possessing intelligence, diligence, and wisdom, but merely awaiting discovery. With advancements in technology, CO2 supercritical fluid extraction has revealed multiple valuable components in shell ginger. Huashi Company, with over 30 years of experience in developing daily necessities and skincare products, has invested in supercritical fluid extraction, water extraction, and Class 10,000 cleanroom production and R&D facilities. It collaborates with academic institutions such as National Chiayi University, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Chiayi Innovation Incubation Center, and industrial organizations like the Metal Industries Research & Development Center. This collaboration aims to develop a series of shell ginger products or products utilizing various indigenous specialty plants, thereby educating the public about the ecological stories of these unique plants, integrating an innovative economy into daily life, and establishing a healthy, sustainable, and 'LOHAS' (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) lifestyle. Thus, the Alpinia Speciosa Story House was born.