Every cloud has a silver lining

Kit Li

 

My last visit to Beijing was in 2008, the year of the Olympics. At that time, the lifestyle in China was quite old-fashioned. After almost 18 years, I had the chance to visit Guangzhou by myself, and visiting Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine (1) for Clinical Placement and shadowing a couple of well-known Professors at A&E department.  

The preparation for this Guangzhou trip was hectic. Initially, I was supposed to go to Nanjing to join my professor, Dr. Wang, and his team for a study tour at Nanjing University to observe and learn.  However, due to complications with my visa application, my plans changed. Perhaps it was meant to be. 

I spent a weekend exploring Guangzhou and realised that the rapid growth and transformation of the quality of life in China have been phenomenal and unexpected. Generally speaking, in every city, you can see that structures like buildings and train stations, and even traffic flow, are systematically well-managed.  To see and feel such a transformation left me speechless.

On Sunday morning, I saw the Canton Tower, went to Yongqing Fang, but my favorite spot was Baohua Road. Its little alleys have this amazing nostalgic atmosphere. 

I didn't even expect to spend the whole afternoon strolling leisurely through Dongshan, feeling so content that I almost forgot to leave. Along the way, I tried a freshly baked scallion pancake, fragrant with scallions and crispy on the outside. Paired with a cup of herbal tea that clears heat and detoxifies, it was just perfect.

This unexpected trip to Guangzhou has been a profound lesson.  I've learned that a country's true soul isn't just in its modern skylines, but in the quiet, simple moments, like the smell of a street-side scallion pancake or the bitter taste of Chinese herbal tea.

My journey started with a changed plan, but it has given me a wonderful insight.  I'm currently here,  learning not only about the advanced medical knowledge from the hospital, but also a culture that beautifully balances an exciting future with a rich and warm past.

References:

1) Southern Medical University Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine : https://www.nfzxy.com/

2) Guangzhou Travel Guide: Guangzhou Travel Guide: Canton Transportation, Attractions

Autumn's Bounty: A Healing Lotus Root Soup

Kit Li

I just passed by the wet market in Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong. The vegetable stall owner was very proud of her products and told me that one of the most popular seasonal vegetables is lotus root.

Lotus roots come from the lotus plant, a perennial aquatic plant that grows in the mud of shallow ponds, marshes, and flooded fields. They are native to Asia, Australia, New Guinea, and parts of the Middle East. The root is actually the rhizome, or subterranean stem, of the lotus flower.  China is considered one of the places where the first known harvests occurred centuries ago.

The nature of lotus root depends on how it's prepared: raw lotus root is cooling and helps clear heat and stop bleeding, while cooked lotus root is warm-neutral and strengthens the spleen and stomach. Both forms are associated with entering the Liver, Lung, and Stomach meridians. 

Raw lotus root 

Nature: Cooling 

Taste: Sweet 

Actions: Clears heat, cools the blood, stops bleeding (especially from the lungs), and removes blood stagnation. 

Cooked lotus root 

Nature: Warm-neutral 

Actions: Strengthens the spleen and stomach, relieves diarrhea, and nourishes the blood. 

Other properties: it benefits for Liver, Lung, and Stomach, also can help clear heat and toxins from the intestines and stomach. 

Why is Lotus Root considered one of the best seasonal foods in Autumn?

In TCM perspective, Lotus Roots is an autumn food because it is a "white" food that nourishes the lungs and the large intestine, which are associated with the Metal element and the dryness of autumn. As a moistening food, it helps combat autumn's drying effects, which can lead to symptoms like dry skin, coughs, and sore throats. The lotus root is a versatile, moistening food that helps hydrate the body and supports the Lungs.  

Lotus Root, Carrot, Corn, and Lotus Seed Vegetarian Soup

Portions: 4 Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

This delicious vegetarian soup combines the nutritional benefits of its core ingredients: lotus root for strengthening the spleen and boosting energy, carrot for improving eyesight and supporting digestion, corn for a touch of natural sweetness, and lotus seeds for moisturizing the lungs and nourishing the heart.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) Lotus Root, peeled and sliced

• 2 large Carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1 fresh Corn on the Cob, cut into 4 pieces

• 1/2 cup peeled Chestnuts

• 1/3 cup dried Lotus Seeds, soaked for 10 minutes

• 1/4 cup raw Cashew Nuts

• 2L Water 

Instructions:

Place all the prepared ingredients and add 2L of water into a pressure cooker, with the soup setting (High) for 30 minutes.

This nourishing brew is a perfect embrace for a cool autumn day, directly addressing the season's dryness as described by TCM.

Precautions:

• For those with a cold constitution: Lotus root is considered cooling in nature. Excessive consumption may cause abdominal pain or diarrhoea. It is advisable to eat it cooked.
• For diabetics: Lotus root is relatively high in starch. Diabetics should be mindful of their portion size to avoid affecting blood sugar levels.

• For individuals with digestive ulcers or those prone to bloating: The high fibre content in lotus root may exacerbate bloating or discomfort if eaten in large quantities.

Huang Jing: The Humble Treasure of Qi and Yin Nourishment

Kit Li

In my earlier blog, I introduced Huang Qi (Astragalus) as one of the key herbs for promoting and replenishing Qi (Huang Qi and Tonifying Herbs for Strengthening Vitality) [1]

Today, I would like to share another treasured herb for nourishing Qi and Yin in Traditional Chinese Medicine: Huang Jing (黄精, Polygonatum Sibiricum).  

There is an old Chinese saying: 'RenShen is for the wealthy, but Huang Jing is for the poor.'  This reflects how Huang Jing has long been valued as a humble yet powerful tonic herb, accessible to ordinary people, while carrying remarkable benefits for nourishing both body and spirit.

Huang Jing (黄精, Polygonatum Sibiricum) [2, 3].  In ancient times, Huang Jing was seen as a powerful food for health and longevity.  Some even said that taking it regularly could help one 'live like an immortal'.

Properties: sweet, neutral

Channels: Spleen, Lung and Kidney

Functions: 

1) Tonifies Qi and Yin: Nourishes both Qi (vital energy) and Yin (body fluids and essence), making it a rare herb that strengthens without being too heating or too cloying.

2) Strengthens the Spleen and Stomach: Helps with fatigue, poor appetite, and weakness.  Used when someone feels depleted but doesn’t want overly heavy tonics like ginseng.

3) Moistens the Lungs: Eases dry cough, thirst, and lung Yin deficiency.  Good for people with a dry throat, weak voice, or lingering dry cough.

4) Nourishes the Kidneys and Essence (Jing): Traditionally believed to prolong life, support fertility, and restore vitality.  Helps with low back weakness, dizziness, or premature aging signs.

In ancient times, the people of the countryside often gathered Huang Jing from the deep mountains.  Whenever one was weary or weakened, its root were steamed and taken with wine, or simmered with chicken to restore strength.

Among the elders, there was a severed method of preparation: to steam and sun-dried the herb nine times in succession.  This practice, known as 'Nine Steamed and Nine Sun-Dried' (九蒸九晒), was said to refine its essence and elevate its virtue, until it rivaled the nourishing power of Ginseng itself.

Key research in supporting Huang Jing's effects:

1) Improves learning/memory, enhances brain function, delays aging. [4]

2) Regulates glucose and lipid metabolism, lowers blood glucose, reduces cholesterol/triglycerides. [5]

3) Immune modulation, lifting immunosuppression. [6]

4) Anti-oxidant & anti-inflammatory effects. [7]

Four-Treasure Vitality Tea: (四宝养生茶)

This tea is designed to tonify Qi, nourish Yin, strengthen the immunity, and enrich the blood, especially suitable for people with Qi and Blood deficiency, fatigue, or lowered immunity.  It is often used to enhance overall vitality, support the immune system, and protect cardiovascular health. 

Ingredients:

1) Huang Qi (黄芪, Astragalus): 10g

2) Huang Jing ( 黄精, Polygonatum sibiricum): 10g (cut into pieces)

3) American Ginseng (西洋参): 3–5 g (sliced)

4) Goji Berries (枸杞子): 10g

Preparation Method:

1) Rinse the herbs lightly.

2) Boil the above ingredients with 1000ml water.

3) Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer for 30 minutes.

4) Ready to drink.

Precautions:

1) Not suitable for acute infections (cold/flu with fever), excessive dampness/phlegm, or if you have a strong heat constitution.

2) Pregnant or nursing women, or people on medication (especially for blood sugar, blood pressure, or immune conditions), should consult a qualified TCM practitioner before use.

References:

 

1) Huang Qi and Tonifying Herbs for Strengthening Vitality

Huang Qi and Tonifying Herbs for Strengthening Vitality

 

2) Huang Jing, from medicine to healthy food and diet

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370967131_Huangjing-From_medicine_to_healthy_food_and_diet

 

3) Herbal textual research on Chinese medicine "Huangjing" (Polygonati Rhizoma)and some enlightenments

[Herbal textual research on Chinese medicine "Huangjing" (Polygonati Rhizoma)and some enlightenments] - PubMed

 

4) Polygonatum sibiricum ameliorated cognitive impairment of naturally aging rats through BDNF–TrkB signaling pathway

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jfbc.14510?utm_source=chatgpt.com

 

5) Hypoglycemic and Hypolipidemic Activity of Polygonatum sibiricum Fermented with Lactobacillus brevis YM 1301 in Diabetic C57BL/6 Mice

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34280031/

 

6) Characterization and Immunological Activities of Polysaccharides from Polygonatum sibiricum

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32475918/

 

7) Polygonatum sibiricum polysaccharide alleviates inflammatory cytokines and promotes glucose uptake in high‑glucose‑ and high‑insulin‑induced 3T3‑L1 adipocytes by promoting Nrf2 expression

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31485663/

 

Case-Based Insights from Brain Acupuncture Internship Observations

Kit Li

As part of the Brain Acupuncture Internship Program, three full days of observation in Dr. Wang’s clinic are obligatory.

Last Saturday, I visited Dr Wang’s clinic to begin fulfilling my three-day observation requirement. A total of 11 patients were treated, some of whom have been long-standing patients, receiving brain acupuncture with Dr. Wang for over two to eight years.

I was fortunate to observe a wide range of cases, including three patients with Motor Neurone Disease, two with Anxiety Disorder, as well as others suffering from dementia, chronic depression, infertility, epilepsy, and insomnia...etc. Two patients had even travelled from Northern Ireland and Manchester. No matter the distance, their determination to see Dr. Wang was the most striking factor behind their commitment to treatment.

It has been a truly valuable experience that has deepened my understanding of Brain Acupuncture. What impressed me most during my observation was not only the variety of conditions treated, but also the patients’ responses, each of them left with a smile and a sense of positivity. They all share one strong belief: Brain Acupuncture has the power to change their lives.

Today was my second day of observation at Dr. Wang’s clinic.

I gained more insight into general practice, as every practitioner has their own unique approach. I also observed the use of electro-acupuncture, along with an advanced technique in abdominal acupuncture. Although I was already trained in this at LACA and have confidently applied it in my own practice, Dr. Wang’s teaching refreshed my perspective.

In terms of patients, we saw a few under 50s who had suffered from post-stroke syndrome and brain injuries. Most of them had delayed treatment and missed the crucial stage for appropriate care due to misdiagnosis in the early stages.

Just a thought: ‘Health is not something we can take for granted.’ As practitioners, we should strive to keep ourselves healthy and well, both mentally and physically, otherwise, we may not be able to help others.

I’m looking forward to my next observation.

Reflection on My 3-Day Internship at Dr. Wang’s Clinic:

I feel very grateful for the opportunity to observe patients at Dr. Wang’s clinic, especially those with neurological disorders I had not encountered before.

Many patients had missed the best time for treatment due to early misdiagnosis, which made me realise how crucial early and accurate care is.

Working with Dr. Wang showed me how effective brain acupuncture can be. I also learned a lot from observing his interaction with patients, the trust and connection between them were truly inspiring.

I gained new insights into different treatment styles and observed techniques such as electro-acupuncture and abdominal acupuncture. These experiences deepened my understanding and refreshed my approach to practice.

Our discussions on treatment approaches were particularly insightful and further strengthened my commitment to advancing my knowledge in this field. We also discussed how to treat post-stroke and Parkinson’s syndromes, which I found very inspiring.

Thank you Dr Wang.

Huang Qi and Tonifying Herbs for Strengthening Vitality

Kit Li

How much do you know about some Chinese Herbs that can replenish vital energy (Zheng Qi), strengthen the constitution, enhance resistance to illness, and treat patterns of deficiency. These are called tonifying herbs, also known as nourishing herbs or restorative herbs. 

Most of these herbs are sweet in taste, with the function of replenishing deficiency and strengthening weakness. They can supplement the body's Qi, Blood, Yin and Yang, and are used to treat deficiency syndromes, including Qi-deficiency, Blood-deficiency, Yin-deficiency, Yang-deficiency, Qi-Blood dual deficiency, and Yin-Yang dual deficiency. Some of these herbs also have additional effects such as clearing heat, dispelling cold, generating fluids, moistening dryness, or astringing loss, and thus treat corresponding conditions.

There are four categories in tonifying herbs:

1. Qi-tonifying herbs
2. Blood-tonifying herbs
3. Yin-tonifying herbs
4. Yang-tonifying herbs

Today, I’m going to introduce one of the most commonly used Qi-tonifying herbs, Huang Qi (Radix Astragali).(1) (2) 

Huang Qi (Radix Astragali), mainly produced in Inner Mongolia, Shanxi, Heilongjiang, etc. Used raw or honey fried.

Properties:

1. Sweet, slightly warm
2. Spleen and Lung Meridians

Functions:

1. Tonifies Qi and raises Yang
2. Strengthens the exterior and stabilises the surface (protects against external pathogens)
3. Promotes urination and reduces oedema
4. Expels toxins and promotes tissue regeneration

Clinical applications:

1. Spleen-Stomach Qi deficiency
2. Spleen-Qi deficiency with sinking middle Qi: organ prolapse (rectal, uterine, gastric prolapse, etc)
3. Lung-Qi deficiency: cough, asthma, shortness of breath
4. Qi-deficiency: spontaneous sweating, susceptibility to colds
5. Qi-deficiency with oedema and difficulty urination
6. Qi-Blood deficiency: anaemia, sallow complexion, numb limbs, chronic ulcers or wounds that fail to heal
7. Xiao Ke (wasting-thirst, diabetes mellitus)

 Caution:

The dosage of Huang Qi must be carefully considered when prescribing it in any formula. When used in small doses, it can raise blood pressure, whereas in large doses, it can lower blood pressure.

Huang Qi with modified Si Shen Tang (3): to strengthen Spleen, expels dampness, tranquilising the mind and also replenish Qi.

Ingredientes (equal part, 5g each)

1. Huang Qi (Astragalus root): tonifies Qi, raises Yang, strengthens the Spleen and Lung
2. ShanYao (Chinese Yam): tonifies the Spleen and nourishes Stomach Yin
3. Fuling (Poria): strengthens the Spleen, drains dampness, calms the mind
4. Lianzi (Lotus Seed): strengthens the Spleen, calm the mind, stops diarrhoea
5. Yiyiren (Coix seed): strengthens the Spleen, resolves dampness

Cooking methods:

1. Wash all the ingredients
2. Put all them in a ceramic pot with 1000ml water
3. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 45 minutes
4. Ready to drink

This homemade herbal soup is suitable for individuals with weak Spleen and Stomach functions, such as those experiencing poor appetite, fatigue, oedema, loose stools, pale complexion and mild insomnia.  In this formula, Huang Qi helps to tonify Qi and raise Yang, thereby strengthening the Spleen and Stomach.

Tonifying herbs like Huang Qi are important in TCM for restoring strength, boosting resistance to illness, and treating long-term weakness. When used with other gentle Spleen-strengthening herbs in Modified Si Shen Tang, they created a safe daily tonic to improve vitality, especially for people with weak digestion and low energy. Regular but careful use can help maintain health and build resilience.

References:

1) Research state of the herbal medicine Huangqi (Radix Astragali): A global and bibliometric study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38394541/

2) Phytochemistry and cardiovascular protective effects of Huang-Qi (Astragali Radix: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33464616/

3) The Classic formula, Si Shen Tang: Shan Yao (Chinese Yam), Lianzi (Lotus Seeds), Fuling (Poria), and Qian Shi (Dried Fox Nut Barley): for strengthening Spleen and Stomach, resolves dampness and calming the nerves

Improving Mobility and Hearing in Parkinsonism with OPA1 Mutation: A TCM Case Update (Part II)

Kit Li

Three months ago, I received a female patient referred by Dr. TJ Wang, a brain acupuncture expert in the UK. [For more details, please refer to my earlier blog: A Case Study of Parkinsonism with OPA1 Mutation Treated with Acupuncture: A TCM Approach to Neurodegeneration (Part I).]

In early June, Miss E, a 54-year-old woman diagnosed with Parkinsonism associated with an OPA1 gene mutation (1) sought Brain Acupuncture treatment with me. This is not a common presentation, and typically the prognosis is quite challenging. Over the past three months, she has received twelve sessions of brain acupuncture combined with Chinese herbal medicine.

An assessment was conducted at her 10th session, approximately two weeks ago.

1) Mobility – 10% improvement

1. Gait steadier with walking stick
2. Greater independence (able to climb onto the massage bed unaided)

2) Hearing – 20% improvement

1. Tinnitus (right ear) markedly reduced
2. Improvement appears linked to both neurological regulation and menopausal balance

For the past six weeks, she has been prescribed two modified herbal formulas, Modified Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang (加减补阳还五汤) (2) and Modified Geng Nian Kang (加减更年康) (3). Since beginning this regimen, her general vitality has improved, Qi and Blood have been strengthened, and overall systemic resilience is better. The combined approach of brain acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine appears to provide not only symptomatic relief but also functional improvement in independence and quality of life.

1. Modified Bu Yang Huan Wu Tang (加减补阳还五汤): Tonifies Qi, invigorates Blood, unblocks channels, and addresses neurological and circulatory deficits. Traditionally used post-stroke, here adapted for neurodegeneration.
2. Modified Geng Nian Kang (加减更年康): Regulates Yin/Yang during menopause, calms Shen, harmonizes Liver and Kidney, and stabilises the menopausal/endocrine aspect. This support often overlaps with mood, sleep, and systemic resilience.

Together, this combination strengthens both the “Root” (Qi, Blood, Kidney essence) and the “Branch” (Parkinsonian symptoms, tinnitus, gait).

Next Steps:

1. Continue the current dual-formula approach.
2. Address residual symptoms: muscle rigidity in the anterior thighs and persistent tremors require formula fine-tuning.
3. Monitor evolving patterns: including sleep quality (insomnia/dream-disturbance common in Parkinsonism), mood regulation (irritability, anxiety, depression linked with both Parkinsonism and menopause), and autonomic function (bowel, bladder, sweating).
4. Maintain close collaboration with her biomedical team (neurologist, GP) to ensure integrative outcome tracking and support.

References:

1) Syndromic parkinsonism and dementia associated with OPA1 missense mutations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25820230/

 Optic atrophy and parkinsonism in a family associated with OPA1 mutation

https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/optic-atrophy-and-parkinsonism-in-a-family-associated-with-opa1-mutation/

2) Bu Yang Hua Wu (补阳还五汤): the classical formula name (by Qing dynasty physician Wang Qing-Ren), literally “Tonify the Yang to Restore the Five [Organs/Limbs] Decoction,” mainly for post-stroke hemiplegia due to Qi deficiency and blood stasis. 

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377147491_Therapeutic_effects_of_Buyang_Huanwu_Tang_combined_with_RT-PA_intravenous_thrombolysis_on_stroke_of_Qi_deficiency_and_blood_stasis_type_and_its_impact_on_Keap1-Nrf2ARE_pathway_antioxidant_stress

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0944711322003919

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40972726/#:~:text=Abstract,underlying%20molecular%20mechanisms%20remain%20unclear.

3) Modified Geng Nian Kang (更年康) has 10 ingredients:

Shudihuang (Radix Rehmanniae Preparata): nourishing yin and blood

ShanYao (Chinese Yam): tonifies qi in Lung and Spleen

Zhimu (Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge): expels heat

Danggui (Chinese Angelica Root): nourishing blood...etc

Milestones and Gratitude: My Acupuncture Journey

Kit Li 

The year 2025 marks a turning point in my life.

I have diligently earned two diplomas: one as a qualified acupuncturist at the London Academy of Chinese Acupuncture (LACA), and another as a Brain Acupuncturist at the Academy of Scalp Acupuncture (ASA). These achievements represent a milestone in my career within the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

I am truly grateful to have graduated from both LACA and ASA, where I had the privilege of being taught by an elite team of TCM professors. Over the past two years, they have mentored, supported, and encouraged me, helping me complete a three-year acupuncture diploma in just two intensive years. The journey was not easy. There were moments of challenge and self-doubt, yet looking back, every effort was worthwhile. I am deeply proud of myself for this achievement.

During these years, I was also honoured to serve as a monitor and as student clinic manager, supporting my peers and learning alongside them as though we were a family. I was fortunate, too, to be a student member of CAHMA, SAS, and CMA, which gave me further opportunities to broaden my understanding of TCM.

I still vividly remember my very first independent treatment at the student clinic. It was for a female patient, under the supervision of one of our professors. I was nervous and anxious at the time, but today, I feel far more confident. In fact, I am now treating patients with positive outcomes and have begun volunteering as a neuro-acupuncturist at South Bucks Hospice, supporting patients with cancer and neurological conditions. This opportunity, one I had long hoped for, allows me to give back to the community and apply my skills in a meaningful way.

Once again, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my professors and to my team. I know there is still a long road ahead before I can become the best TCM practitioner I aspire to be. Yet I embrace this lifelong journey of learning wholeheartedly, with passion and dedication.

Lìqiū (立秋): Nourishing Soup for the Transition into Autumn

Kit LI

Did you know the first solar term of autumn quietly arrived a week ago?   Start of Autumn (Liqiu) (1) is the 13th of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese Lunar Calendar.  It marks the end of the hot summer season and the beginning of autumn.  Although the weather may still be quite hot during this period. the overall trend is a gradual shift towards cooler temperatures.

Liqiu represents the shift from the scorching Summer to the cooler Autumn.  It is a turning point where Yang energy begins to recede, Yin energy starts to grow, and the climate changes from Yang-dominant to Yin-dominant.  

The period after Liqiu can still be very hot, a phenomenon known as the 'Autumn Tiger' referring to a short spell of intense heat after the start of Autumn.  Nevertheless, temperatures gradually trend downward, rainfall and humidity gradually decrease, the weather becomes drier, and the temperature difference between day and night increases.

When people ask me about recipes or herbs for this seasonal change, I often recommend dietary therapy as a complementary approach.   One nourishing soup, which benefits healthy by Regulating the Qi, Strengthening the Spleen, Resolving Dampness and Nourishing Lungs:

Ingredients (for four people): 

Wǔ Zhǐ Máo Táo (五指毛桃, Ficus hirta) - 40g   

Yù Zhú (玉竹, Polygonatum odoratum) - 20g

Bǎi Hé (百合, Lilium spp.) - 20g

Fú Líng (茯苓, Poria cocos) - 20g

Yì Mǐ (薏米, Coix lacryma-jobi) - 20g

Raw Cashew Nuts - 30g

Water - 1.5L

If you have a nut allergy, you can cook this soup with lean pork instead.

Put the above ingredients in a pressure cooker, and put Soup setting for 30 minutes, then ready to drink.

Herbal Functions:

Wǔ Zhǐ Máo Táo (五指毛桃, Ficus hirta) (2), it helps strengthen the Spleen and Lungs, promoting the circulation of Qi, boosting energy, removing dampness from the body, and relieving muscle and joint pain.  It may also be used as a supportive, complementary therapy for chronic hepatitis and fluid retention associated with  liver cirrhosis.

Yù Zhú (玉竹, Polygonatum odoratum), it nourishes yin, moistens dryness, eases cough and thirst, and nourishes Lungs.

Bǎi Hé (百合, Lilium spp.), it moistens the lungs, clears Heart-Fire and calms the spirit, helps with restlessness or dry cough.

Fú Líng (茯苓, Poria cocos) (3), it strengthens the spleen, drains dampness from the Lower Jiao, and supports mental calmness.

Yì Mǐ  (薏米, Coix lacryma-jobi), it strengthens spleen, reduces swelling and dampness, supports joints and relieve pain.

Additional notes:

1) Suitable as a tonic soup for elderly, convalescent, or weak individuals.

2) Can be combined with other herbs depending on individual TCM diagnosis.

3) Not suitable for severe diarrhoea from cold-damp, or for people with extreme yang deficiency, unless modified.

As the season quietly shifts from the heat of Summer to the cool embrace of Autumn, taking care of your body with gently, nourishing foods can help you adapt to the changing climate, strengthen your Qi, and support overall wellness.  A simple soup like this not only warms and balances the body, but also brings a sense of comfort and harmony as nature transitions around us.

Embrace the rhythm of the seasons, and let your diet be a support companion for Health and Vitality.

References:

1) Liqiu: Liqiu - Wikipedia

2) Effects of Ficus hirta Vahl. (Wuzhimaotao) extracts on growth inhibition of HeLa cells: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/50850281_Effects_of_Ficus_hirta_Vahl_Wuzhimaotao_extracts_on_growth_inhibition_of_HeLa_cells

3) Chemical constituents and pharmacological properties of Poria cocos: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21347995/

 

 

 

TCM Post-Stroke Recovery with Scalp Acupuncture and Herbal Therapy

Kit Li

An eighty year-old male patient experienced an ischemic stroke (1) one month ago.  Prior to the stroke, he suffered from a severe chest infection that did not fully resolve.

He has a long-standing history of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and chronic kidney disease for over 40 years, with frequent symptoms including nocturia and lower-limb oedema.

From a TCM perspective, aging and kidney yang deficiency, combined with qi and blood stagnation, may contribute to the accumulation of phlegm and dampness.

Fortunately, his post-stroke symptoms are limited to memory impairment and mild slurred speech, with no mobility issues.

On the 4th of August, he received his third scalp acupuncture (2) treatment, with Dao-qi technique, also electro-acupuncture (3) applied to several key areas, including the FSA, CA, and selected body points on Du-mai and Ren-mai.  

I prescribed Bi Min Gan (鼻敏感) (4), a classical formula that expels Wind and relieves nasal congestion to address the patient’s severe seasonal allergic rhinitis.  Its main ingredients include Jing Jie (荆芥, Schizonepeta stem or bud) (5), Fang Feng (防风, Saposhnikovia root), Bai Zhi (白芷, Dahurian angelica root), and Gan Cao (甘草, Licorice root), among others. After one week of herbal therapy, signs of dampness and heat were significantly reduced, as shown in the above photos.

On the 11th of August, I selected a modified Jade Screen + (Yu Ping Feng San, 加味玉屏风散) (6) formula, a renowned formula for boosting immune function and strengthening Defensive-Qi, making it an effective preventive remedy for those with recurring hay fever.  The modifications were tailored to strengthen both Qi and Blood. Clinical observation confirmed this effect: the tongue surface became smooth, and the curved cracks previously visible had disappeared. These changes indicate that the Spleen function was successfully tonified and Qi and Blood replenished.  See the below photo.

References:

1) An ischemic stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked, usually by a blood clot or a build-up of fatty deposits in the blood vessels. Without oxygen and nutrients, brain cells start to die within minutes.

2) Efficacy and safety of scalp acupuncture in improving neurological dysfunction after ischemicstroke: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7447452/

3) Early intervention with electrical stimulation reduces neural damage after stroke in non-human primates: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-025-61948-y

4) Bi Min Gan (鼻敏感): to treat wind-cold and wind-heat syndromes, expels dampness, reduces inflammation, clears nasal problem and discharge, and relieve superficies.

5) Jing Jie and Fang Feng: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37315642/

6) Yu Ping Feng San （玉屏风散） is considered the best immune tonic herb in stabilizing and strengthening the protective “Qi”.

Yu Ping Feng San, an Ancient Chinese Herbal Decoction Containing Astragali Radix, Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma and Saposhnikoviae Radix, Regulates the Release of Cytokines in Murine Macrophages - PMC

Monk Fruit & Middle Fu: A Soothing Brew for Seasonal Shifts

 

Kit Li

Although the monitor showed a temperature of 17c and the humidity at 81% over the past two mornings, I was surprised to wake up with a dry throat, and I noticed some peeling skin.  When I checked the Chinese lunar calendar and realised that yesterday marked the beginning of the Middle Fu (Zhongfu), the second phase of Sanfu Days, which lasts from 30 July to 08 August.  Traditionally, this period is known for intense heat and humidity, but here in the UK, it feels like Summer is already fading.

In my earlier blog post, Sanfu Days Wellness Guide: Nourishing Qi & Cooling Heat with TCM Wisdom, I shared Chinese Herbal Tea  suggestions suitable for hot and high humidity weather.  However, due to the differences in geographical climate and regions, I adapted my approach today and prepared a soothing tea with Monkfruit (Siraitia grosvenorii, 罗汉果) to help nourish the lungs and moisten dryness. 

Monk Fruit, Maimendong and Dried Figs Tea

Ingredients:    

Monkfruit (Siraitia grosvenorii, 罗汉果)            1/4 of the whole one

Maimendong (Radix Ophiopogonis, 麦冬)         10g

Dried Figs (Carica, 无花果干)                             3-5 pieces

Method: Boil all ingredients in 2 Litres of  water for 20 minutes, 2 -3 times during the Middle Fu or until the dry throat subsides, preferably warm.

This tea is mildly sweet, hydrating, and ideal for supporting the lungs, especially during this unexpected shift in seasonal energy.

Monkfruit*, Maimendong*, and Dried Figs* are often combined during the mid-summer season to help clear heat, moisten the lungs, and generate body fluids to relieve thirst.  All three ingredients have the effect of clearing heat and moistening dryness, making them especially suitable for the hot and humid mid-summer period, or for symptoms such as dry mouth, sore throat, and coughing caused by yin-deficiency and internal heat.

Special benefits:

Monkfruit: sweet and cool in nature, it clears heat, moistens the lungs, relieves cough, and helps with bowel movement.

Maimendong: sweet and slightly cold, it nourishes yin and moistens the lungs, benefits the stomach and promotes fluid production, and helps clear irritability.

Dried Figs: sweet and neutral, it clears heat, generates fluids, moistens the lungs to relieve cough, and aids digestion and intestinal health.  Dosage and combination can be adjusted according to personal taste.

Precautions:

1. People with a cold constitution, for instance, those prone to diarrhoea, should reduce the frequency of drinking the tea, or add ginger to the mix.
2. The tea is NOT suitable for those with cold-type coughs, for instance, clear phlegm and nasal congestion.
3. Pregnant women or people severe diabetes should consult a qualified Chinese Practitioner before consuming.

References:

What is Monkfruit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siraitia_grosvenorii

The Fruits of Siraitia grosvenorii: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6903776/

A Chinese classical prescription Maimendong decoction in treatment of pulmonary fibrosis:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11112100/

Dried Figs: https://www.organicfacts.net/dried-figs.html