In traditional Chinese medicine, lung health and yang energy are believed to be crucial for one’s vitality and immunity. Instead of relying on expensive ginseng, there are numerous natural foods that can nourish the lungs, boost yang energy, and provide incredible benefits to the body.
Here are 5 traditional dishes that are considered even “better than ginseng” that you should include in your diet:
1.百合粥 – Effective Lung Nourishment and Cough Relief
Benefits:
百合 (bai he) or daylily is a precious herb in traditional Chinese medicine, known for its ability to nourish the lungs, relieve coughs, clear heat, and aid in the treatment of chronic bronchitis. When combined with sticky rice and honey,百合粥 (bai he zhou) or daylily porridge becomes not only delicious but also highly beneficial for overall health.
Preparation:
Use 50g of fresh百合 (bai he) (or 30g dried) and 100g of sticky rice. Cook into a porridge, and optionally add a bit of honey to enhance its natural sweetness.
Consume it warm in the morning or before bed to maximize its effects.
2.黄芪鸡汤 – Major Qi and Blood Tonic, Vitality Booster
黄芪鸡汤 (Huang Qi Ji Tang)
Benefits:
黄芪 (huang qi), or astragalus, is a valuable herb that helps boost qi, enhance immunity, and is especially beneficial for those suffering from physical weakness and cold limbs. When combined with free-range chicken, this dish warms the body, nourishes the lungs, and boosts yang energy.
Preparation:
Use one small free-range chicken (approximately 1kg), 30g of astragalus, 10g of goji berries, and 5 slices of ginger. Simmer for about 2 hours, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
Serve hot, especially during cold weather.
3. 黑蒜 粥 – Lung Nourishment and Immune System Boost
Benefits:
黑蒜 (hei suan), or black garlic, is packed with antioxidants and potent antibacterial properties. It helps keep the body warm, nourishes the lungs, and strengthens the immune system. 黑蒜 粥 (hei suan zhou) or black garlic porridge is particularly suitable for those prone to colds and prolonged coughing.
Preparation:
Cook plain porridge, then crush 2-3 cloves of black garlic and mix it into the porridge while it’s still hot. Fresh ginger can be added to enhance its warming effect.
4. 冬虫夏草鸽汤 – Kidney Tonic, Lung Nourishment, and Yang Booster
Benefits:
Pigeon is a food that tonifies qi and blood and boosts vitality, while 冬虫夏草 (dong chong xia cao), or cordyceps, helps nourish the lungs, enhance immunity, and improve male sexual function.
Preparation:
Use one cleaned pigeon, 5-10g of cordyceps, red dates, and lotus seeds. Simmer in a double boiler for 2 hours.
This dish is highly recommended for those who have recently recovered from an illness or are suffering from physical weakness.
5. 蜜炖梨 – Lung Cleansing and Throat Soothing
Benefits:
Pears have a cooling effect, moisten the lungs, and reduce coughing. When combined with honey and ginger, this dish helps protect the respiratory system and strengthens lung health.
Preparation:
Cut the pears in half and hollow out a small space. Fill the cavity with honey and ginger. Steam for 30 minutes.
Consume it warm to achieve the best results.
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