In the realm of Chinese medicine, the profound connection between gut health and overall well-being has long been recognized. As we delve into the wisdom of ancient teachings, it becomes clear that digestive health holds the key to vibrant vitality.
Today, with the prevalence of processed foods and chemicals, prioritizing gut health is more crucial than ever.
One potent remedy that combines nourishment and healing is bone broth, which is a staple in every culture in the world.
By infusing your broth with Chinese herbs like ginger, goji berries, and Chinese yams, we can elevate its healing capacity.
Let’s explore the healing benefits of bone broth and learn how to make an affordable, organic rotisserie chicken bone broth at home.
The Importance of Gut Health in Chinese Medicine:
Li Gao, one of the forefathers of Chinese medicine, emphasized the significance of the gut in his treatise on the spleen and stomach.
AV-9
Boost immunity and recover cellular conductivity with powerful compounds of oxygen, minerals, and electrolytes.
This foundational belief that all diseases originate in the gut remains relevant today. Research supports this notion, highlighting the urgent need to prioritize digestive health in the face of modern dietary challenges.
Digestive health has become the new black, and nourishment through food is considered the most fundamental medicine.
Chinese Herbs and the Five Elements:
Chinese medicine draws upon the wisdom of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each element carries distinct characteristics, including taste, emotion, color, and action. For example, the earth element is associated with the spleen and stomach organs/meridians.
Late summer, representing earth, is characterized by a sweet taste. However, worry is the associated emotion. Imbalances in the Earth element can manifest as digestion issues, overthinking, and insomnia.
Eating Your Way to Better Health with Broths:
Broths have been a staple in cultures worldwide, and Chinese cuisine is no exception. Chinese herbal medicine incorporates specific herbs and spices into soups and food to support overall health.
Familiar herbs like anise, fennel, cinnamon, cardamom, clove, ginger, orange peel, and dates are commonly used in Chinese cooking and formulas.
Broths are considered superfoods because they provide nourishment, bioavailable nutrients, amino acids, and collagen.
Collagen is particularly beneficial for gut healing, joint health, hair, and skin. Additionally, broths offer a sensory experience, allowing us to slow down and savor the moment.
Enhancing Bone Broth with Chinese Herbs:
To further enhance the healing capacity of bone broth, Chinese herbs can be incorporated. Here are a few suggestions:
- Ginger: Known for its digestive benefits, ginger aids in soothing the gut and alleviating digestive discomfort. Add fresh ginger slices or grated ginger to your bone broth during the simmering process.
- Goji Berries: These nutrient-rich berries are revered for their immune-boosting properties. Simmer a handful of goji berries in your bone broth to infuse it with their powerful antioxidants.
- Dang Shen (Codonopsis): This herb is renowned for its tonifying properties, promoting vitality and overall well-being. Add a few pieces of dried dang Shen root to your bone broth for an extra boost.
A Basic Recipe for Organic Rotisserie Chicken Bone Broth:
Ingredients:
- Bones and carcass of an organic rotisserie chicken
- 1 onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 1-inch piece of ginger, sliced
- Handful of goji berries
- 2-3 pieces of dried dang Shen root (optional)
- Water
Instructions:
- Place the chicken bones and the carcass in a large pot or slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, ginger, goji berries, and dried dang Shen root (if using).
- Fill the pot with enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 6-8 hours (or longer for a richer flavor).
- Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
- Once the broth is done simmering, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Allow the broth to cool before refrigerating or freezing it in convenient portions.
Conclusion:
Bone broth, enriched with Chinese herbs, offers a holistic approach to healing and nourishment. Incorporating herbs into your bone broth infuses it with additional health benefits.
By embracing the wisdom of Chinese medicine and preparing bone broth at home, you can optimize your digestive health and enhance your overall well-being.
Take a step towards a healthier future by incorporating this ancient remedy into your daily routine.
