Rehmannia glutinosa (熟地黄, Shu Di Huang) is the root of the plant from the family Scrophulariaceae, specifically the species known as Di Huang or Huai Qing Di Huang. The processing methods are documented in the “Léi Gōng Pào Zhì Lùn” (雷公炮炙论). It is primarily produced in regions such as Henan and Zhejiang in China, and is used in medicine after steaming and drying. It can be utilized for conditions such as blood deficiency leading to sallow complexion; dizziness and palpitations; irregular menstruation; excessive bleeding; liver and kidney yin deficiency; tidal fever and night sweats; nocturnal emissions and impotence; infertility; weakness in the lower back and knees; tinnitus and deafness; blurred vision; premature graying of hair; diabetes; constipation; and kidney deficiency with shortness of breath. Let’s explore the efficacy and proper usage of Rehmannia glutinosa!
Efficacy and Functions of Rehmannia Glutinosa
1. Blood Nourishing Effect: Rehmannia glutinosa is sweet and slightly warm, and it enters the liver and kidney meridians. It is commonly used to nourish yin and replenish essence, serving as a blood tonic. It is often combined with Dang Gui (当归, Angelica sinensis), Chuan Xiong (川芎, Ligusticum chuanxiong), and Bai Shao (白芍, White Peony Root) to assist with blood deficiency, palpitations, dizziness, insomnia, and irregular menstruation. When used with Suan Zao Ren (酸枣仁, Ziziphus jujuba), it can help calm the spirit in cases of blood deficiency. For excessive bleeding, it can be taken with Ejiao (阿胶, Donkey-hide Gelatin) and Ai Ye (艾叶, Mugwort) to replenish blood.
2. Kidney Nourishing Effect: Rehmannia glutinosa is also highly effective for kidney nourishment. It is one of the main ingredients in the Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (六味地黄丸, Six-Ingredient Rehmannia Pill), which is said to greatly replenish the true yin of the five organs. When combined with Shan Yao (山药, Chinese Yam) and Shan Zhu Yu (山茱萸, Cornelian Cherry), it can assist with liver and kidney yin deficiency, lower back and knee weakness, and night sweats and nocturnal emissions. When used with Zhi Mu (知母, Anemarrhena) and Huang Bai (黄柏, Phellodendron), it is effective for patients with yin deficiency and bone steaming tidal fever. Additionally, when combined with He Shou Wu (何首乌, Fo-Ti), it can address issues of essence and blood deficiency leading to premature graying of hair.
3. Heat Clearing Effect: When used with Sheng Di (生地, Raw Rehmannia), it can both nourish and clear heat, being particularly effective for conditions that exhibit both yin blood deficiency and heat signs. Rehmannia glutinosa is often added to soups to impart a subtle flavor and nourish the marrow. It can also be used to infuse alcohol, with various herbs added according to specific needs, which is beneficial for health.
Proper Ways to Consume Rehmannia Glutinosa
1. Rehmannia Glutinosa Stewed Chicken: This is a common method of consumption. Prepare a black chicken and 25 grams of Rehmannia glutinosa, along with 15 grams of Dang Gui and appropriate amounts of Bai Shao and Chuan Xiong. Clean all the prepared herbs and place them in a clean cloth bag, tying it securely. After cleaning the chicken, place it in a stewing pot with sufficient water, adding ginger and scallions, and then add the herb bag. After boiling, simmer on medium heat for about two hours, and finally season with salt.
2. Rehmannia Glutinosa Porridge: Rehmannia glutinosa is also particularly suitable for making porridge. For this, prepare 15 grams of Rehmannia glutinosa, 50 grams of rice, and an appropriate amount of rock sugar. Slice the Rehmannia glutinosa and boil it with sufficient water. After boiling, simmer on low heat for half an hour. Strain to remove the herb residue, then return the liquid to the pot, adding the washed rice and rock sugar to cook into porridge, which can be consumed once ready.
3. Rehmannia Glutinosa Infused Alcohol: Infusing alcohol is also a common method of consuming Rehmannia glutinosa. Prepare 50 grams of Rehmannia glutinosa, 20 grams of Goji Berries (枸杞, Lycium barbarum), and 15 grams of Dang Gui. Place them in a clean glass bottle, add high-purity liquor, and seal for infusion. The resulting medicinal wine can be taken directly, with a daily dosage not exceeding 20 grams. Regular consumption of this medicinal wine can significantly improve physical health and reduce the incidence of rheumatic bone pain.
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The Efficacy and Usage of Rehmannia Glutinosa and Its Contraindications!
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