How to take lotus seeds correctly?

Lotus seeds are a kind of food that has the same origin as medicine and food. It has the functions of nourishing the heart and calming the nerves, strengthening the spleen and stopping diarrhea. However, it needs to be taken scientifically according to the physical constitution and needs. This article will start fromSuitable groups, consumption methods, combination taboos and precautionsFour aspects are developed to help readers make rational use of lotus seeds. The core contents are in order: the traditional functions and applicable scenarios of lotus seeds, common ways of eating them (such as cooking porridge, stewing soup), suggestions for pairing with different ingredients, and taboos for special groups of people (such as pregnant women and people with hot and humid constitutions).

1. The efficacy of lotus seeds and suitable groups

Lotus seeds are mild in nature and sweet in taste, and are associated with the spleen, kidney, and heart meridians. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that they canTonify the spleen and stop diarrhea, nourish the kidneys and strengthen essence, nourish the heart and calm the mind, suitable for people with spleen deficiency and diarrhea, insomnia and dreaminess, or kidney deficiency. Modern nutritional analysis shows that lotus seeds are rich in protein, potassium and vitamin B, which are beneficial to regulating blood pressure and nervous system. However, people with damp-heat constitution (such as yellow and greasy tongue coating) or constipation should use it with caution to avoid aggravating symptoms. The Ming Dynasty's "Compendium of Materia Medica" recorded that lotus seeds "connect the heart and kidneys, and thicken the intestines and stomach." Wang Mengying, a physician in the Qing Dynasty, also recommended lotus seed porridge to treat weakness.

2. Common ways to eat lotus seeds

Lotus seeds can be eaten alone or with other ingredients:1) Cook porridge: For example, lotus seed and red date porridge needs to be soaked for 1 hour in advance to soften;2) Stew soup: Stew with Tremella fungus and lily to enhance lung moistening effect;3) Powder it and drink it immediately: Suitable for those with weak digestion. It should be noted that the core of lotus seeds is bitter and cold in nature. Removing the core can reduce the coldness, while retaining the core is suitable for those with strong heart fire. The recommended daily dosage is 10-15 grams (about 5-8 pills). Excessive dosage may cause abdominal bloating.

3. Combination taboos and precautions

Lotus seeds should not be eaten withCold foods (such as crabs)orPungent seasonings (such as chili)Eating the same food may affect the function of the spleen and stomach. Pregnant women can eat a small amount (it is recommended to remove the core), but they need to avoid compatibility with water-reducing ingredients such as barley. Commercial lotus seed products need to be distinguished between medicinal and food grade. For example, "Jianlian" from Jianning, Fujian is mainly used for medicinal purposes, while "Xianglian" from Xiangtan, Hunan is mostly used for cooking. Some manufacturers such as"Tongrentang"Production of lotus seed powder products, details are shown in the table below:

4. Summary and suggestions

As a traditional tonic, lotus seeds should be taken scientifically according to your physical constitution and cooking methods. Healthy people can add a small amount every day, but for specific symptoms (such as insomnia) it is recommended to use it under the guidance of traditional Chinese medicine. When purchasing, pay attention to the place of origin and processing methods, and avoid sulfur smoked products. If taking it for a long time or for auxiliary treatment of diseases, you should consult a professional physician.

Quote sources:
1. "Compendium of Materia Medica" (Li Shizhen, Ming Dynasty)
2. "Suixiju Food Spectrum" (Wang Mengying, Qing Dynasty)
3. National Pharmacopoeia Commission "Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China" 2020 edition
4. Manufacturer data source: Tongrentang official website, Guizhentang product manual