What They Do

This list of the functions of 10 Chinese herbs was compiled from “Chinese Herbs with Common Foods” by Henry C. Lu. Be sure to consult a trained herbalist.

*Astragalus root: Tones energy, elevates yang, checks perspiration.

*Chinese yam: Strengthens spleen and stomach, relieves diarrhea, tones lungs and kidneys.

*Codonopsis: Tones middle region, benefits energy, strengthens spleen, produces fluids.

*Cordyceps: Waters and tones lungs and kidneys; benefits semen and marrow, transforms sputum, arrests bleeding.

*Dendrobium: Benefits stomach; produces fluids.

*Jujubes: Strengthen spleen and stomach; harmonize herbal ingredients in a formula.

*Lablab beans: Tone spleen, counteract toxins.

*Lycium berries: Tone kidneys, nourish liver and blood, sharpen vision.

*Poria: strengthens spleen, calms heart and spirits.

*Solomon’s seal: Lubricates dryness, produces fluids, quenches thirst.