Geographical Variation Shapes Nutritional Metabolite Profile and Food Functionality of Houttuynia cordata

<b>Background/Objectives:</b><i>Houttuynia cordata</i> Thunb., a widely consumed vegetable and traditional food in Asia, possesses significant nutritional value. However, the impact of geographical origin on its nutritional metabolite composition, crucial for food quality and functionality, remains unclear. <b>Methods:</b> Here, we conducted a comprehensive metabolomic analysis of <i>H. cordata</i> cultivated across six major Chinese regions (Yunnan, Guangxi, Guizhou, Sichuan, Chongqing, Hubei) using UPLC-MS/MS. <b>Results and Conclusions:</b> We identified 496 nutritional metabolites, predominantly amino acids and derivatives (53.23%). Key bioactive carbohydrates, maltotriose and maltitol, exhibited distinct geographical accumulation patterns: maltotriose was significantly enriched in Yunnan (YN), while maltitol accumulated predominantly in Sichuan (SC). Integrated transcriptomic analysis linked this variation to the differential expression of starch metabolism genes (GBE1/glgB, α-amylases, β-amylases). Bioinformatic evaluation suggested potential health-related functionalities associated with these metabolites. These findings provide critical insights into the geographical determinants of <i>H. cordata</i> nutritional quality and functional properties. They offer a scientific foundation for optimizing cultivation practices based on regional advantages and developing <i>H. cordata</i> as a region-specific, high-value vegetable and functional food ingredient targeting distinct nutraceutical applications.