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Herb
Blurds
Not just kitchen ingredientsThe
traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) system of healing is based on the belief
that there are two opposing energy forces known as yin
and yang.
These forces need tobe
balanced or else the
qi (or
life force) will be blocked and illnesses will then occur. To fully restore
health, this holistic alternative medical system aims to regulate both mind and
body.
Herbal
medicine is a major branch of study and practice in TCM. Acquainting yourself
with the different raw herbs, how they work to preserve the energy balance in
your body and the different functions they perform is the first step to good
health. For methods of preparation, usage in food dishes and dosage, it is best
to consult a qualified TCM practitioner.
Here
are a few of the more popular
TCM herbs:
1
Du Zhong
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Commonly known as eucommia bark.
•
Enters the liver and kidney channels.
•
Supplements
yang
and circulates
qi.
•
Strengthens bones, muscles and tendons, relieves lower back pain, lowers
blood pressure, stabilises foetal movement and produces a calming effect.
•
Also used to treat irregular menses, impotence and frequent urination.
2
Dang Gui
•
Commonly known as Chinese
angelica root.
•
Enters the heart, liver and spleen channels.
•
Excellent blood tonic that enhances blood and
qi circulation.
•
Most important herb in treating gynaecological problems like irregular
menses, heavy and painful blood-flow during menstruation and infertility. Also
good for blood-related disorders like anaemia, blood in stools and excessive
blood loss.
3
Jin Yin
Hua
•
Commonly known as honeysuckle flower.
•
Enters lung, heart, large intestine and stomach channels.
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Acts against respiratory tract infections, pneumonia and influenza.
•
Recently used in an herbal tea to combat severe acute respiratory
syndrome (SARS). Also treats sores, abscesses and breast infections.
4
Hua Qi
Shen
•
Commonly known as American
wild ginseng.
•
Enters heart, lung and kidney channels.
•
Enriches
yin.
•
Quenches thirst by promoting secretion of body fluids like saliva and
urine.
•
Cooling properties reduce “heatiness”.
•
Boosts energy levels and combats fatigue. Treats chronic cough and
boosts lung function. Improves blood circulation and immune system.
5
He Shou Wu
•
Commonly known as
shou wu
or fleece flower root.
•
Enters the liver, kidney, heart and large intestine channels.
•
Relieves heatiness and treats
yin
deficiency.
•
Regulates bowel movements, prevents premature white hair, controls blood
sugar levels, improves liver function and maintains overall efficiency of
immune system.
6
Ren Shen
•
Commonly known as ginseng.
•
Enters spleen and lung channels.
•
Enriches
yang
and boosts
qi.
•
Revitalises energy level, improves cardiac function and curbs shortness
of breath.
•
Treats menstrual problems in women and impotence in men, exerts calming
effect and sustains alertness.
•
Promotes secretion of body fluids, and believed to promote overall good
health and longevity.
7
Dong Chong
Xia Cao
•
Commonly known as cordyceps.
•
Enters the kidney and lung channels.
•
Acts on lung
yin
and kidney
yang.
•
Enhances immune system and protects against cold and cough. Reduces
phlegm and mucus, effective against shortness of breath and childhood asthma,
and may increase sexual vitality
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