In traditional Chinese medicine theory, blood stasis refers to a pathological state in which blood circulation in the body is not smooth, leading to stagnation of qi and blood. Blood stasis not only affects the normal function of various systems in the body but may also trigger various diseases. Therefore, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, soothing the liver, and regulating qi have become important methods to maintain health. In this article, we will introduce three types of food that have the effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, soothing the liver, and regulating qi to help you prevent and treat diseases related to blood stasis through dietary regulation.
1. Black Fungus
Black fungus is a nutritious edible mushroom rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, especially high in trace elements such as iron and calcium. It also contains a component called black fungus polysaccharide, which has good medicinal value. It can reduce blood viscosity, decrease thrombus formation, and promote blood circulation and removal of blood stasis. Additionally, black fungus helps soothe the liver, regulate qi, relieve emotional issues, and improve symptoms such as chest tightness and rib pain caused by blood stasis. To maximize the benefits of black fungus, it is recommended to consume it moderately in dishes such as salad, stew, or stir-fry.
2. Hawthorn
Hawthorn is a common fruit and a medicinal herb with the effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, soothing the liver, and regulating qi. It contains flavonoids, organic acids, and other active components that can dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure, improve coronary blood supply, promote blood circulation, and eliminate blood stasis. The sour and sweet taste of hawthorn also aids in digestion, soothes the liver, relieves depression, and alleviates emotional problems. It is advisable to consume hawthorn moderately in the form of infused water, porridge, or directly eating it.
3. Rose Flower
Rose flower is a medicinal herb with high medicinal value, known for its effects in soothing the liver, relieving depression, promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, and alleviating pain. It contains abundant volatile oils, flavonoids, and other components that can calm emotions, regulate endocrine function, and improve blood circulation. Additionally, rose flower helps balance qi and blood, improving symptoms such as dysmenorrhea and irregular menstruation caused by blood stasis. To fully benefit from rose flower, it is recommended to drink rose flower tea or incorporate rose flower jam in your diet.
In addition to the above-mentioned foods, there are other foods with the effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, soothing the liver, and regulating qi. For example, leeks, ginger, red dates, longan, and other foods can also be consumed moderately. It is essential to maintain good lifestyle habits and mindset, avoid excessive fatigue, and emotional fluctuations to sustain overall well-being.
When consuming these foods, it is important to pay attention to the appropriate combinations and cooking methods. For instance, black fungus can be eaten in salad or stew, hawthorn can be infused in water or made into porridge, while rose flower can be brewed into tea or added as an ingredient. Regarding combinations, individuals can tailor them according to personal preferences and needs, such as pairing black fungus with chicken, tofu, and combining hawthorn with honey or lemon. It is crucial to monitor the intake and frequency of food consumption, avoiding excessive consumption or prolonged intake of a particular food.
In conclusion, blood stasis is a common pathological condition that can lead to various diseases. Consuming foods with the effects of promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, soothing the liver, and regulating qi in moderation can help regulate the body, prevent and treat diseases related to blood stasis. When selecting foods, consider personal preferences and needs for combinations while maintaining a healthy lifestyle and mindset. In cases of symptoms related to blood stasis, seek timely medical attention and professional treatment.
