Mind and Body Wellness with Tea and Snacks from Japanese Kampo Medicine

Hello! from Shiha Tea Studio.

Today, we introduce a healthy snack that benefits both the body and mind, based on  the ideas of Japanese Kampo medicine."

The Role of Tea in Japanese Kampo Medicine

First of all, let’s talk about tea...

According to the concept of Kampo medicine, the effects of tea are said to be.., the effects of tea are said to be "生津止渴" (hydrating and quenching thirst), "清热解毒" (removing heat from the body), and "利尿" (promoting urination to remove excess water from the body). Similarly, the snacks we share this time can support and balance both the body and mind.

Food as Medicine (食薬)

Please note that these foods are known as 食薬 (food medicine) in Kampo, and while they have beneficial effects, these effects are gradual.

We eat them to maintain health or when we feel our body or mind is not in perfect condition, contributing to overall well-being. (But when we feel sick or have symptoms, we go see a doctor and get medication.)

Everyday Foods with Health Benefits

Shiha Tea staff often eat the following four foods: Jujube (Red dates), Pine Nuts, Raisins, and Black Soybeans. Sometimes, we serve them with tea to guests.

The Effects of These Four Foods

The effects of these four foods in Kampo medicine theory (which is the same in TCM) are as follows:

Jujube, Raisins, and Pine Nuts nourish / tonify blood. They can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety caused by Blood Deficiency (血虚). (If the blood that nourishes the body is insufficient, it can potentially cause symptoms such as anxiety.)

Jujube: The Fruit of Longevity

Regarding Jujube, there is a saying in China where they grow:
"日食三枣,長生不老" (Eat three jujubes a day, and you will stay young forever.)

Jujube has a sweet taste and makes a great companion for tea time.
The appropriate amount of jujubes is 1 to 3 per day. 

Pine Nuts: Smoothing Effect for Digestion and Lungs

Pine nuts can help moisten the intestines and relieve constipation. They also moisten the lungs and relieve dry cough. In addition, they provide moisture to the skin and hair. Even though they have beneficial effects, be sure to consume an appropriate amount. Limit your intake to about 10 pine nuts per day.

Black Soybeans: Supporting Hair Health

Black Soybeans enhance spleen function and improve water metabolism. They also support kidney function, help with anti-aging, and promote healthy hair. They have many other beneficial effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these foods contribute not only to the health of the body and mind but also to the health of the skin and hair. They are delicious and healthy food options, and we recommend adding them to your daily tea time or snacks.

Wishing you good tea times and joyful days.

Sincerely
Kampo Health Guide, Shiha Tea Sudio

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