Spring has arrived, bringing warmer weather but also persistent rain and dampness. Many overlook the impact of humidity, unaware of the troubles it can cause. 1. Chinese Yam Chinese yam, with its sweet taste and neutral nature, enters the spleen, lung, and kidney meridians. It strengthens the spleen, nourishes the lungs, and fortifies the kidneys.In traditional Chinese medicine, it is counted among the "Four Great Huai Medicinal Herbs" alongside Achyranthes root, Rehmannia root, and Chrysanthemum. Consuming more yam in spring effectively nourishes the lungs and fortifies the kidneys.
The simplest way to prepare yam is to wash it thoroughly and boil it directly. Due to its low water content and high sugar concentration, the resulting broth is thick and viscous. It holds its shape well during prolonged boiling, yielding a sweet and glutinous texture. Shortly after eating, it stimulates saliva production in the mouth.
2. Red Beans
Why does dampness lead to water retention and bloating? When dampness accumulates internally, bodily fluids cannot circulate with qi and blood, causing them to stagnate within cells. This leads to bodily swelling and water-retained weight gain. Consuming red beans increases gastrointestinal motility, promotes urination, and reduces swelling. Additionally, red bean water is particularly effective against edema caused by heavy flavors or mental stress.
Before bed, simmer red beans in water for a while. The next day, drink the unsweetened red bean broth as you would water. Regular consumption effectively promotes detoxification. Note: When cooking coix seed and red bean porridge, avoid adding rice. While it enhances flavor, it significantly reduces the dish's ability to dispel dampness and heat.
3. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are also excellent for dispelling dampness. This category includes various ear-shaped and cap-shaped varieties like wood ear fungus, white fungus, button mushrooms, and bamboo fungus. Rich in protein, dietary fiber, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals while being cholesterol-free, mushrooms help reduce fat and blood sugar levels.
While hundreds of wild mushroom species exist, only a few are edible. Beyond natural factors, environmental pollution can cause poisoning. Thus, promptly identifying toxic wild mushrooms is imperative. Exercise extreme caution with brightly colored, reddish-spotted varieties emitting pungent, foul odors or bitterness—avoid them entirely. Edible mushrooms possess natural aromas without unpleasant smells.
4. Coix Seed (Yi Mi)
Coix seed, also known as Job's tears or Chinese foxnut, is arguably the best ally for dispelling dampness and strengthening the spleen."Coix seed excels at promoting diuresis without depleting vital yin energy. It is most suitable for those with excessive dampness in the lower body," according to the Compendium of Materia Medica. Coix seed is known for its ability to strengthen the spleen and stomach, reduce edema, dispel wind-dampness, relax tendons and bones, and clear lung heat.
Raw coix seeds boiled in soup help dispel dampness and wind. For strengthening the spleen, benefiting the stomach, and treating spleen deficiency diarrhea, they must be stir-fried before consumption. Coix seeds are difficult to cook thoroughly. Soak them in warm water for 2-3 hours before cooking. Once fully hydrated, they will cook easily alongside other grains.
Additionally, selecting the right type of coix seed is crucial. Traditional Chinese medicine holds that smaller seeds possess greater medicinal efficacy. Among China's three primary varieties—Qujing coix from Yunnan, Xingren coix from Guizhou, and Jinsha coix from Fujian—Jinsha coix boasts the smallest seeds.It's no wonder Jinsha Job's Tears became a tribute grain to the imperial court since the Ming Dynasty. It remains the only Job's Tears variety nationally recognized for dual use as both grain and medicine, and currently holds the sole national geographical indication protection designation. A local folk song in Jinsha praises it thus: "Job's Tears surpasses lingzhi mushrooms, rich in medicinal and nutritional value. Regular consumption extends longevity, restoring youth and vitality."
Job's Tears Tea
Ingredients: Job's tears, goji berries, dried red dates
1.Rinse the Job's tears thoroughly with clean water.
2. Drain well, place in a pan, and roast slowly over low heat.
3. Wash the goji berries and red dates, then place them in a teapot.
4. Add the roasted Job's tears.
5. Pour in boiling water, steep for 5-10 minutes, and enjoy.