Plant medicine is an art that is reemerging and is taking a more common place in households. Many herbs are readily available to us in our homes, gardens, or at the grocery store, you just need to know where to look! This post is part one of an ongoing series. Check out my instagram and facebook feeds for new herbs as they are published to discover more Chinese herbs found in your home and garden!
Chen Pi
Chen pi (tangerine peel) can be dried as used as an herbal tea. Cut the peel into strips and spread evenly on a baking sheet. Set over to 200 degrees F. Place herbs in over for 20-30 minutes until they are dried. Suggested dosage is 3-9 grams raw. I recommend using organic oranges, rinsing peels, and drying completely before using.
Sheng Jiang
Sheng jiang (fresh ginger)is a very useful herb that you can keep in your home to help with a variety of ailments. Great for colds, digestive issues, and detoxification. The property of sheng jiang is hot but the skin has a cool property. Keep the skin on if you’d like sheng jiang to have a more neutral temperature effect. Suggested dosage is 1-2 grams raw.
In the case of colds, a ginger bath can be used. Boil 1 pound of ginger in 10 cups of water for 20 minutes. Strain out ginger and add remaining water to your normal temperature bath water (Please check temperature of bath water before getting in). Sit in the bath and enjoy! When you get out be sure to wrap up with a blanket to help induce sweating.
Rou Gui
Rou gui (cinnamon bark) is a common herb used in cooking and baking but it is also useful for feeling of cold, cold limbs, frequent urination, pain due to cold-obstruction, and helps to generate qi and blood in the body. Suggested dosage is 1.5-5 grams raw. This will also make your house smell amazing when you boil it!
Bo He
Bo he (mint) is an available and useful herb for sore throats, colds, digestive issues, skin issues, and irritability. Because of it’s aromatic nature, it should only be decocted or brewed for about 5 minutes. If it brews for longer the heat cooks out the beneficial properties of the herb. Bo he is easily grown inside or in shady spots outdoors.
Xi Gua
Xi gua (watermelon) is not only food, but is also helpful as food medicine to deal with heat and humidity. While the red center is the sweetest, the white part close to the skin will have stronger effects. Suggested dosage is at least 9 grams daily.
The information on this page was referenced from an amazing herbal information website called American Dragon. Check it out to discover more common Chinese herbs found in your home and garden!
Evenstar Acupuncture also offers herbal consultations! If you are interested in exploring plant medicine but would like some guidance, contact us today!
