A wide range of traditional Chinese medicinal materials are suitable for making soup. Here are some commonly used ones:
Astragalus Membranaceus (Huangqi): Known for its qi-tonifying properties, astragalus can enhance the body's resistance and prevent colds and other illnesses. It is often used in soups to improve fatigue and shortness of breath.
Angelica Sinensis (Danggui): A blood-tonifying herb, angelica can promote blood circulation, relieve menstrual pain, and nourish the blood. It is particularly suitable for women.
Codonopsis Pilosula (Dangshen): This herb has the effects of tonifying the spleen and lungs, nourishing qi and blood, and promoting the production of body fluid. It can improve spleen and stomach weakness and qi and blood deficiency.
Chinese Yam (Shanyao): With the functions of nourishing the spleen, lungs, and kidneys, Chinese yam can improve digestive function and enhance overall health.
Red Dates (Hongzao): Rich in vitamins and minerals, red dates have the effects of nourishing blood and qi, and calming the nerves. They can make soup more nutritious and delicious.
Wolfberry (Gouqizi): Known for its nourishing effects on the liver and kidneys, wolfberry can improve vision, enhance immunity, and prevent aging.
Lycium Barbarum (Goujizi): Another name for wolfberry, it is commonly used in soups to enhance their nutritional value.
Ginseng (Renshen): A powerful qi-tonifying herb, ginseng can improve vitality, enhance mental clarity, and reduce fatigue. It is often used in soups for its rejuvenating properties.
Chinese Licorice (Gancao): With the effects of tonifying the spleen and lungs, harmonizing the middle energizer, and clearing heat and detoxifying, Chinese licorice can improve digestive function and relieve cough.
Cordyceps Sinensis (Dongchongxiacao): A rare and precious medicinal material, cordyceps can nourish the lungs and kidneys, enhance immunity, and improve respiratory function. It is often used in soups for its health-promoting properties.
Polygonatum Odoratum (Yuzhu): With the functions of nourishing yin and moistening dryness, tonifying the lungs and spleen, and strengthening the spleen and stomach, polygonatum odoratum can improve dry cough, thirst, and spleen deficiency.
Lotus Seed (Lianzi): Known for its effects on nourishing the heart and calming the nerves, lotus seeds can improve insomnia and anxiety. They are often added to soups for their soothing properties.
Poria Cocos (Fuling): With the functions of draining dampness, promoting diuresis, and soothing the nerves, poria cocos can improve edema, urinary problems, and insomnia.
Fructus Amomi (Sharen): Known for its effects on warming the middle energizer and dispelling cold, fructus amomi can improve indigestion, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
Fructus Schisandrae Chinensis (Wuweizi): With the functions of astringing the lungs and kidneys, nourishing the heart and calming the nerves, fructus schisandrae chinensis can improve chronic cough, night sweats, and insomnia.
When choosing medicinal materials for soup, it is important to consider personal physical condition and dietary needs. It is recommended to consult a doctor or a professional in traditional Chinese medicine for guidance, to ensure that the selected medicinal materials are suitable and safe for consumption. Additionally, proper cooking methods and moderation in consumption are also crucial.
