In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the liver represents an abstract concept extending beyond the physical organ. It governs the smooth flow of energy and blood storage through meridian connections to various body systems. Closely linked to emotional states, prolonged pent-up anger, persistent low mood, or sudden weight loss due to stress can damage liver qi. Over time, this may lead to liver qi stagnation. Common clinical manifestations of liver qi stagnation include: 1.Depression and melancholy;
2. Distending pain under the ribs or lumps in the hypochondrium;
3. In women: breast distension, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, or even amenorrhea;
4. Globus sensation and dry heaving due to qi stagnation;
5. Distending pain in the lower abdomen with possible masses;
6.Swelling in the front of the neck, indicating thyroid enlargement;
Liver qi stagnation is not merely a state of emotional gloom. Over time, it can damage physical health, leading to conditions such as depression, hepatitis, breast hyperplasia, chronic pharyngitis, irregular menstruation, dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and more. Poor liver health can also affect vision, making liver nourishment and protection crucial.Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) employs dietary therapy for liver nourishment. Medicinal diets offer significant therapeutic benefits for various ailments, with numerous options specifically designed to regulate liver function. Seize the spring season—an optimal time for liver care—by regularly consuming these nourishing dishes to support overall health.
Below is a medicinal recipe for liver regulation, helping you maintain liver health and prevent liver diseases.
Liver-Nourishing Medicinal Dish: Cassia Seed Porridge
Main Ingredients: Oyster Shell (Shi Ju Ming), Cassia Seed (Jue Ming Zi)
Supporting Ingredients: White Chrysanthemum, Japonica Rice, Rock Sugar
Preparation: Pan-roast Cassia Seeds until fragrant. Combine with White Chrysanthemum and Oyster Shell in an earthenware pot to decoct the liquid. Use this liquid to simmer Japonica Rice into porridge. Add rock sugar to taste.
Usage: Consume once daily in the morning and evening. One course of treatment lasts 3-5 days.
Benefits: This porridge nourishes the liver, subdues yang energy, and clears liver heat to improve vision. It is beneficial for those experiencing red, swollen, or painful eyes. It also addresses symptoms like dry eyes and dizziness caused by liver yang hyperactivity or liver-kidney deficiency.