Food as medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of “药食同源” (Yào shí tóng yuán – "Food and medicine share the same source") means that many foods have medicinal properties, and a proper diet can help prevent and treat illnesses. This idea is fundamental in Chinese nutrition therapy.
Examples of Medicinal Foods in TCM
1. Warming (Yang-boosting) Foods – For Cold & Deficiency Conditions
These foods help improve circulation, digestion, and energy (Qi) and are useful for people with Yang deficiency (cold limbs, fatigue, slow digestion).
Ginger (生姜, Shēng Jiāng) – Warms the stomach, expels cold, relieves nausea.
Garlic (大蒜, Dà Suàn) – Boosts immunity, warms digestion, detoxifies.
Lamb (羊肉, Yáng Ròu) – Strengthens Yang, warms the body, nourishes blood.
Cinnamon (桂皮, Guì Pí) – Warms the kidneys, improves circulation, aids digestion.
2. Cooling (Yin-nourishing) Foods – For Heat & Inflammation
These foods help clear excess heat, nourish fluids, and support people with Yin deficiency (dry skin, insomnia, heat sensations).
Pear (梨, Lí) – Moistens the lungs, relieves cough, clears heat.
Mung Beans (绿豆, Lǜ Dòu) – Detoxifies, cools the body, reduces inflammation.
Cucumber (黄瓜, Huáng Guā) – Clears heat, hydrates the body, detoxifies.
Lotus Root (莲藕, Lián ǒu) – Nourishes blood, cools heat, helps digestion.
3. Qi-Boosting Foods – For Fatigue & Weakness
Qi (vital energy) is essential for bodily functions. These foods strengthen digestion and energy levels.
Ginseng (人参, Rén Shēn) – Tonifies Qi, boosts immunity, enhances stamina.
Honey (蜂蜜, Fēng Mì) – Moistens lungs, strengthens digestion, nourishes Qi.
Rice (米, Mǐ) – Strengthens spleen and stomach, provides sustained energy.
Red Dates (红枣, Hóng Zǎo) – Tonifies blood and Qi, supports digestion, calms the mind.
4. Blood-Nourishing Foods – For Anemia & Dizziness
These foods help build and circulate blood, particularly useful for women, those with pale complexion, or after illness.
Black Sesame Seeds (黑芝麻, Hēi Zhī Ma) – Nourishes blood, supports hair and skin.
Goji Berries (枸杞, Gǒu Qǐ) – Strengthens liver and kidneys, enhances vision.
Spinach (菠菜, Bō Cài) – Rich in iron, nourishes blood.
Chicken Liver (鸡肝, Jī Gān) – High in iron and vitamin A, supports blood production.
5. Digestive & Gut-Strengthening Foods
In TCM, the Spleen and Stomach are crucial for digestion. These foods support gut health and nutrient absorption.
Pumpkin (南瓜, Nán Guā) – Strengthens digestion, helps expel parasites.
Sweet Potato (红薯, Hóng Shǔ) – Boosts spleen function, nourishes Qi.
Fermented Foods (e.g., Miso, Kimchi, Yogurt) – Improves gut flora and digestion.
TCM Dietary Principles
Balance Yin & Yang – Avoid extremes; eat warming and cooling foods according to your body type.
Eat Seasonally – Choose foods that match the climate (e.g., warming foods in winter, cooling foods in summer).
Support Digestive Fire (Spleen & Stomach Qi) – Avoid cold/raw foods if digestion is weak.
Moderation is Key – Excess of any food can disrupt balance.
Contact us or book in for an Initial Consultation + Treatment to discuss a treatment plan with acupuncture and for personalized food recommendations based on your health concerns.
