Blog

Among the simplest and most common ingredients, some possess profound medicinal efficacy. That is the case with the Jujube fruit , or Da Zao (大枣) . More than just a source of sweetness, the Jujube is essential in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for tonifying the Spleen and Stomach , boosting Qi (Vital Energy) , and acting as a necessary harmonizer to mellow the effects of other herbs. As an integrative nutritionist, I recommend Jujube as an ideal "food-medicine" to help manage chronic fatigue, poor digestion, and emotional restlessness.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), moisture is synonymous with life, lubrication, and sustained vitality. When the body's internal fluids are depleted—often due to chronic illness, aging, or environmental dryness—it requires a profound Yin tonic. The tuber of the Ophiopogon Japonicas plant, known as Mai Men Dong (麦门冬) , is revered as the premier herb for replenishing and sustaining this essential internal moisture. As a respiratory specialist with an integrative focus, I frequently recommend this root for soothing dry lungs and fortifying the body against systemic dryness.

While many berries are celebrated for their Vitamin C, the Mulberry fruit , known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Sang Shen (桑椹) , is revered for a deeper, more profound quality: its ability to nourish the body’s fundamental essence and blood. As a longevity expert, I recognize this sweet, dark fruit as a powerhouse for supporting graceful aging, vitality, and blood health—a true traditional superfood.

In the array of traditional herbs, some plants possess a unique, deep warmth capable of penetrating and invigorating the body’s core energy. Mugwort , known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Ai Ye (艾叶) , is one such indispensable herb. It is revered not just for its medicinal tea but for its external application as well. As a women’s health specialist, I highlight Ai Ye for its exceptional ability to warm the channels, regulate menstruation, and promote systemic comfort.

While many herbs are tonics that build the body, others are essential for ensuring everything flows smoothly. The humble Radish , particularly its root and seeds, known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Luo Bo (萝卜) or Lai Fu Zi (莱菔子) for the seeds, is a prime example of a food-herb focused on regulating stagnation. As a dietitian, I frequently recommend incorporating this root for its exceptional ability to resolve food stagnation , aid digestion, and ensure metabolic efficiency.

While many herbs are used to cool and calm the body, some are prized for their warming, stimulating properties that restore energy and vitality—especially in the colder months or for conditions of internal coldness. Chinese Chives , known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Jiu Cai (韭菜) , are one such potent food-herb. As a functional medicine practitioner, I often highlight this herb for its deep warming action, digestive support, and ability to boost systemic vitality.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the most potent remedies are often found in seasonal greens that clear the stagnant energy of winter. Water Dropwort, known commonly as Minari in Korea or Shui Qin (水芹) in TCM, is a highly valued, leafy herb that embodies freshness, cooling, and swift action. As a nutritionist focusing on detoxification and hydration, I recognize this herb as an excellent seasonal food-medicine for clearing internal heat and promoting liver health.

In the pantheon of traditional food-herbs, few ingredients are as highly regarded for their foundational nourishing power as the Chinese Yam , known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Shan Yao (山药) . It is revered not for its dramatic, fast-acting effects, but for its gentle, long-term ability to build and stabilize the body's core systems. As a wellness expert, I recognize Shan Yao as an accessible and essential ingredient for supporting sustained energy, digestive harmony, and overall resilience.

While many medicinal herbs are roots or seeds, some of the most common wild edibles also hold significant therapeutic value. The young fiddleheads of the Bracken Fern , referred to simply as Jue (蕨) in historical Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) texts, have long been utilized as a food-medicine, valued particularly for their cooling and detoxifying properties. As a holistic health guide, I emphasize understanding the traditional role of wild foods like Jue in managing internal heat and promoting overall gut health.