The Medicinal Value of Lockyang
Lockyang, also known as the "immortal grass," is a wild parasitic plant found in desert and Gobi regions. According to the famous ancient Chinese medical text "Bencao Gangmu," it is sweet, warm, and non-toxic, capable of greatly replenishing Yang energy, enhancing vital essence and blood, relieving constipation, moisturizing dryness, and treating weakness. The "Chinese Herbal Medicine Record" states that Lockyang is effective in tonifying the kidneys, lubricating the intestines, and strengthening the waist and knees. It is primarily used to address men's erectile dysfunction (ED), women’s infertility, blood deficiency-related constipation, and weakness in the lower body.
Nutritional Composition of Lockyang
Lockyang contains over 22 volatile components, including catechins, flavonoids, and palmitic acid. Additionally, it includes 15 essential amino acids and various trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, potassium, sodium, cobalt, chromium, and selenium. Modern research has suggested that Lockyang may help in eliminating toxic substances from the body, such as lead, and it exhibits significant anti-cancer properties.
How to Incorporate Lockyang into Your Diet
1. Porridge Recipes
Lockyang Sweet Porridge
To prepare this dish, clean the Lockyang and place it in a clay pot with water to extract a concentrated juice. After straining, wash glutinous rice and add it to the pot with suitable water. Simmer on low heat until the porridge is nearly cooked, then incorporate the Lockyang juice along with white sugar for flavor. This porridge is particularly beneficial for those with kidney Yang deficiency, cold sensitivity, and weakness in the legs.
Lockyang Kidney-Strengthening Porridge
Soak black beans until soft, remove the core from lotus seeds, and crush walnut kernels. Wrap the Lockyang in cloth, then combine it with the black beans, lotus seeds, and walnut kernels in a clay pot. Cook until the rice becomes tender, and you can adjust the flavor to be sweet or savory. This porridge is known for its ability to tonify the kidneys, support Yang, and strengthen the spleen, making it ideal for those suffering from digestive issues related to kidney-spleen Yang deficiency, including acid reflux, gas, cold limbs, and constipation in the elderly.
Conclusion
Incorporating Lockyang into your diet can provide numerous health benefits, especially when it comes to kidney health and vitality. Whether enjoyed in porridge or other dishes, this ancient medicinal ingredient continues to be a powerful addition to modern nutritional practices.