Ingredient Name: Yuzhu, Polygonatum rhizome, Fragrant solomonseal rhizome, Solomon’s Seal
Traditional Chinese Name: 玉竹 (yu zhu)
What is this?
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A type of rhizome that is dug up, dried, and cut into thin, length-wise pieces
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Adding yuzhu to Chinese soups will sweeten the soup and balance heatiness
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The term yu zhu literally translates to “jade bamboo”
How do I prepare it?
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Soak for 30 minutes in cold water
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Add to the soup early on to ensure herb is boiled and fully infused into the soup
Where can I buy this?
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In most Asian dried food / herb shops
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Some Asian supermarkets may also sell this
What is the cost?
- Yu zhu is inexpensive.
Any benefits?
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Yuzhu is generally used in herbal remedies to treat dry lungs and to strengthen the stomach
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Chinese believe yuzhu helps to nourish the yin
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Yuzhu balances heatiness
Any precautions?
- According to popular herbology, do not use yuzhu in cases of spleen deficiency or phlegm-damp
- Also, overdosing may lead to mild nausea, diarrhea and/or vomitting.
Additional Information?
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Dried yuzhu stores well at room temperature
Resources
I understand that Yu Zhu is good for your skin. Is this true? Thank you, have a lovely day, Susan
It is also good for your skin as it helps relieve dryness, however there are other ingredients that are potentially more effective and beneficial to your skin, such as bird’s nest, seabed coconut (highly effective in nourishing the skin and keeping the skin tone even).
Another thing to keep in mind is that the overall body state also affects the skin. For example, the Chinese believe that with a heaty body, you are prone to acne build up and pimples. By drinking soups that relieve heatiness, you can avoid or reduce this problem. Hope this answer helps!