🌿 Yu Zhu (Polygonatum Odoratum Root)
 
Also known as: Solomon’s Seal, Scented Solomon’s Seal Rhizome
Nature & Flavor: Sweet, slightly cold
Meridians Entered: Lung and Stomach
 
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🫁 Benefits
 
1. Nourishes Yin and Moistens Dryness
• Excellent for dry cough, throat dryness, hoarseness, or lung weakness due to Lung Yin deficiency
• Helps relieve dryness caused by weather, smoking, overuse of voice, or long illness
• Commonly used with herbs like Mai Men Dong, Bai He, and Sha Shen
 
2. Generates Body Fluids and Relieves Thirst
• Used for dry mouth, thirst, dry stool, especially in Yin-deficient constitutions
• Gently supports post-illness recovery, especially after fever or sweating
• Moistens without being greasy — suitable for those with a delicate digestion
 
3. Soothes the Lungs and Stomach
• Helps with chronic dry cough, gastric dryness, or lack of appetite due to Stomach Yin deficiency
• May also assist in calming mild irritability due to internal dryness
 
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💡 Commonly Used For
• Lung Yin deficiency: dry cough, throat discomfort
• Stomach Yin deficiency: thirst, dry mouth, constipation
• Post-illness or postpartum recovery
• Dry skin, fatigue from Yin deficiency
• Night sweats or restlessness from internal dryness
 
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🍲 Food Therapy Use
 
Yu Zhu is often used in soups or teas for gentle Yin nourishment:
• Yu Zhu + Lily Bulb + Red Dates + Pork – Lung and Yin nourishing soup
• Yu Zhu + Snow Fungus (Tremella) – Hydrating dessert for skin and lungs
• Pairs well with Sha Shen, Mai Men Dong, Goji berries, and Pear
 
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⚠️ Cautions
• Not suitable for acute colds or Wind-Cold conditions
• Avoid in people with very cold digestion or frequent diarrhea