How to take barley correctly?

Barley (also known as coix seed) is a grain with the same origin as medicine and food. It has the functions of strengthening the spleen, removing dampness, diuresis and reducing swelling. To take it correctly, you need to pay attention to the dosage, combination and contraindications. Different physical constitutions and uses (such as cooking porridge, making tea or using it as medicine) have different methods. This article will start fromInstructions for consumption, applicable groups, precautionsThree aspects are developed to help you make scientific use of barley.

1. Common ways to eat barley

1.Cook porridge or soup: Barley needs to be soaked for 2-3 hours in advance. Combining it with red beans, yam, etc. can enhance the dehumidification effect. Classic recipes such as "Barley and red bean porridge" are suitable for daily preparation.
2.Grind into powder: Powder the fried barley and drink it directly, or add milk and honey for seasoning.
3.Make tea and drink: Stir-fried barley, poria cocos and tangerine peel are cooked together, suitable for removing dampness in summer. Note that those with spleen and stomach deficiency should drink less.

2. Usage recommendations for different groups of people

1.Those with heavy humidity: The recommended daily dosage is 20-30 grams, and the effect will be observed after taking it continuously for 1-2 weeks.
2.Pregnant women and those with cold body: Use barley with caution, especially raw barley, which is cool in nature and may cause discomfort.
3.Weight loss people: Can be used with oatmeal and brown rice as a meal replacement, but it needs to be combined with exercise and cannot be relied on excessively.

3. Precautions and taboos

1.Taboo combinations: It should not be eaten with cold foods (such as mung beans, watermelon), as it can easily aggravate body cold.
2.Storage method: Sealed and moisture-proof to avoid mildew. Moldy barley contains aflatoxin and should not be eaten.
3.Special reminder: Some commercially available "barley tea" contains high sugar content. Please check the ingredient list when purchasing.

Summary: Although barley has many benefits, its usage needs to be adjusted according to your body constitution. It is recommended that first-time users start with a small dose or consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. Long-term users should stop using it for one week every 2-3 months to avoid excessive diuresis and damage to body fluids. Common products on the market are as follows:

Citing sources:
1. "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" 2020 edition (entry of coix seed)
2. The prescription of Coix and Aconite Baijiang Powder in "Synopsis of the Golden Chamber" by Zhang Zhongjing, a famous Chinese medicine practitioner
3. "Physique Conditioning Guide" by Professor Wang Qi of Beijing University of Chinese Medicine