In the culinary world of spring, there exists an ingredient that is like a warm treasure, praised as the “Vegetable Ginseng”. Its sweet taste far surpasses that of radishes, standing out on the stage of spring health preservation, and that is Bai He (Lily). Not only does Bai He satisfy our picky taste buds, but it also plays an outstanding role in health maintenance, especially excelling in 润肺 (moistening the lungs) and 化燥 (transforming dryness), helping us enjoy a comfortable throat in spring and sleep peacefully every night.Bai He is highly nutritious, containing rich alkaloids such as colchicine and various vitamins and minerals. These nutrients make Bai He particularly effective in 润肺 (moistening the lungs). The spring climate is variable, and the dry air often torments our respiratory tract, leading to discomfort such as dryness, itchiness, and coughing. Bai He acts like a caring guardian, effectively alleviating these troubles with its ability to 润肺 (moisten the lungs) and 化燥 (transform dryness). It can moisten the lung mucosa, enhance lung resistance, and reduce the risk of respiratory diseases caused by dryness.Whether stewing Bai He with Yin Er (Tremella) to create a sweet soup or pairing it with Xue Li (Snow Pear) to brew a lung-soothing drink, both methods infuse the lungs with a refreshing essence, making breathing smoother and alleviating throat discomfort and cough. In addition to 润肺 (moistening the lungs), Bai He also possesses magical powers for improving sleep. In the fast-paced modern life, many people face poor sleep quality, and the special components in Bai He can regulate the nervous system, helping us relax and relieve tension and anxiety. As night falls, drinking a bowl of steaming Bai He porridge before bed, accompanied by its subtle fragrance, seems to dissolve the fatigue of the day. Immersed in tranquility, falling asleep becomes effortless, and sleep deepens and stabilizes, allowing us to fully restore our energy in sweet dreams and greet the challenges of a new day with vigor. In terms of taste, Bai He has a unique sweet flavor, which is different from the intense sweetness of candy; rather, it is a fresh, natural, and just-right sweetness that brings a different taste experience. In cooking, there are various ways to prepare Bai He. Stir-frying Bai He is simple and can perfectly present its sweetness and crispness, preserving its original flavor. Cooking Bai He with Lian Zi (Lotus Seed) and Hong Zao (Red Dates) into a sweet soup not only enriches the taste but also doubles the health benefits. Adding Bai He to Western desserts can also enhance their unique flavor, allowing traditional ingredients to shine with new charm in innovation. During this golden period of health preservation in spring, we should incorporate Bai He into our daily diet. With its reputation as “Vegetable Ginseng” and excellent effects in 润肺 (moistening the lungs), 化燥 (transforming dryness), and aiding sleep, Bai He can nourish our bodies comprehensively. Whether on busy weekdays or leisurely weekends, a delicious dish made with Bai He can add a touch of health to our lives. Let us seize the opportunity of spring to care for our bodies and embrace the vibrant spring with the best state, starting each day full of vitality.
