A Lung and Throat Protecting Soup – Joseph DeStefano Licensed Acupuncturist

Another excellent recipe from our friends at Mayway Herbs! Figs are one of the oldest cultivated crops throughout the world, and often said to be a symbol of peace, abundance and prosperity. Dried figs hold a special place in this delicious fall recipe, with heat clearing and moistening properties. Entering the Lung, Large Intestine and Stomach meridians, figs can promote the secretion of saliva to soothe a sore throat and dry cough, as well as being supportive to the functions of digestion and elimination. Pork, which is neutral, sweet and salty, also moistens dryness and benefits the Spleen, Stomach and Kidneys.

The herbs in this soup all work together to support us in this season. Shu di huang, a sweet and slightly warming herb, nourishes our immune functions and “tonifies Essence and Kidney Yin”. Three additional Yin Tonic Herbs: Bai he (Lilly Bulb); Yu Zhu, and Tian men dong, are sweet and cooling, and help to clear a dry cough by moistening the lungs, and help with dry mouth and sour throat. An extremely nourishing and protective tonic for the Metal season, and all the herbs are edible and delicious. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

½ lb – lean pork, cut into cubes
20 g – Shu Di Huang / Rehmannia glutinosa root
30 g – Bai He / Lillium brownii bulb
15 g – Yu Zhu / Polygonatum odoratum rhizome
20 g – Tian Men Dong / Asparagus conchinchinensis root
3-4 pc – Wu Hua Guo / Dried Figs, cut in half
Salt to taste

Directions:

Scald pork in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain and rinse meat
Rinse herbs
Place all ingredients in 2 Quarts of water and boil for 30 minutes, reduce to low heat and simmer for 2 hours.
Skim top
Salt to taste and serve