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Toning up with herbals

By Pauline D.Loh | Shanghai Star | Updated: 2014-11-16 07:00

RESTORATIVE HERBS

Dried Chinese Yam – Dioscorea Huai Shan 

Solomon’s Seal – Polugonatum Yu Zhu

Chalky white slices of Chinese Yam are generally used in soups, where they cook to a translucent texture. They are supposed to be very good for the digestive system, and for clearing accumulated toxins in the body. Solomon’s Seal is another popular herb, often used together with the Chinese Yam. It nourishes the yin energy and is also a diuretic, clearing liquid toxins from the body.

Radix Astralagus Huang Qi  Wolfberries / Goji Berries  Radix Codonopsis Dang Shen 

Astralagus roots have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine, as far back as 2,000 years. They strengthen the body’s immunity system and protect the liver. Medical practitioners believe it has rejuvenation properties if regularly consumed.

Astralagus is often used in prescriptions for hypertension patients. Wolfberries are not from Tibet as usually believed.

The best are from the arid Ningxia Hui autonomous region, and popular as a "superfood". They are indeed a great source of vitamins, especially A and C.

Although long used in traditional Chinese medicine to boost body immunity and improve eyesight, wolfberries have also become popular among Western food faddists.

Radix Codonopis has a long list of benefits including abilities to boost energy, restore ease of breathing and stop excessive thirst.

It is most often used in combination with the other two ingredients listed here.