At the small pagoda nestled along the Thanh Hoa coast, Monk Thich Dam Ngoan, with a petite frame and rolled-up sleeves, was seen recently diligently opening every box of herbal materials being fermented for soap, shampoo, and dishwashing liquid.

Since taking charge of Hoi Long Pagoda in 2008, she has been doing charitable work, supporting and raising over 100 children. To cover expenses, besides time spent on spiritual practice, she embarked on an "entrepreneurial" journey.  

Initially, attempts at mushroom cultivation failed. Noticing the growing popularity of natural herbal products, the monk researched and experimented with fermentation and infusion techniques.

"Many times, I got the formula wrong, and the products didn’t meet standards. Some batches had to be discarded, but I kept trying and eventually succeeded in creating products like tea tree oil and lemongrass essential oil," the monk shared.

Following the success with essential oils, the monk expanded production, sourcing more ingredients to make shampoos, conditioners, and dishwashing liquids, all from natural materials, serving both locals and visitors to the pagoda. 

Many of Hoi Long Pagoda’s products have now been certified as OCOP products. It was not until 2024 that the products received official certification and protection from authorities. 

These products are now widely distributed in the market, becoming the main funding source for the pagoda’s charitable activities, supporting over 50 disadvantaged children.

The production of herbal products has created stable jobs for more than 10 local Buddhist followers.

In addition to devotedly managing the pagoda and caring for the children, Monk Thich Dam Ngoan has participated in social activities over the years, promoting patriotic emulation movements initiated by local authorities and the Fatherland Front at various levels.

Notable efforts include humanitarian charity, poverty alleviation, and fostering cultural community life, aligning with the movement to build pagoda landscapes, develop new rural areas and civilized urban areas" with the motto "Bright heart, virtuous path."

The monk and the pagoda strictly adhere to regulations on religious and belief activities, combating superstition and firmly opposing any attempts to exploit religion to undermine national unity, harm the country’s peace, independence, and unity, or tarnish the reputation of Vietnamese Buddhism.

Monk Thich Dam Ngoan, benefactors, and Buddhist followers have carried out charitable activities worth tens of billions of VND.

In 2024, Hoi Long Pagoda was awarded a Certificate of Merit by the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front for outstanding contributions to social welfare programs, strengthening national unity.

Le Duong