Job’s tears, also known as “Chinese pearl barley” or “coix seed”, is often compared to ginseng, highlighting its nutritional value that is on par with ginseng. Job’s tears is a commonly used Chinese medicinal herb, known for its beneficial effects in strengthening the body and improving digestion in individuals with weakness or poor digestion. However, not everyone is suitable to consume Job’s tears, as there are specific groups of individuals who should avoid it.
1. Be cautious if you have a weak spleen and stomach
In traditional Chinese medicine, Job’s tears have a cool nature. For individuals with a weak spleen and stomach, consuming Job’s tears may exacerbate the cold symptoms in their body, leading to discomfort such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Therefore, if you often experience cold hands and feet or have difficulty digesting food, it is advisable to seek medical advice before consuming Job’s tears.
2. Moderate consumption for pregnant and lactating women
Job’s tears have astringent properties that may affect the health of the fetus or infant. Despite being nutritious, during pregnancy and lactation, it is recommended for women to consult a healthcare professional before consumption to ensure it does not negatively impact maternal and infant health.
3. Avoid during colds or fever
During a cold or fever, the body requires a light diet for recovery. The astringent nature of Job’s tears may not be conducive to relieving symptoms. If you are experiencing a cold or fever, it is advisable to temporarily avoid consuming Job’s tears to prevent worsening the condition.
4. Caution for individuals taking specific medications
Individuals taking certain medications, especially diuretics or antihypertensive drugs, should be mindful of consuming Job’s tears. Job’s tears may interact with these medications, affecting their efficacy. In such cases, it is recommended to consume Job’s tears under medical supervision.
Ways to Consume Job’s Tears
There are various ways to enjoy Job’s tears, each highlighting its unique nutritional value along with delectable flavors.
Firstly, Job’s tears can be used to make porridge. Cook a suitable amount of Job’s tears with glutinous rice, red dates, and other ingredients to create a nutritious porridge. This preparation not only provides a rich mouthfeel but also aids digestion, making it suitable for individuals with weak bodies or poor digestion. The sweetness of Job’s tears complements the glutinous texture of rice, creating a delightful dish.
Additionally, Job’s tears can be used to make soups. Stew Job’s tears with pork ribs, chicken, or other meat ingredients to prepare a nourishing Job’s tears soup. During the stewing process, the texture of Job’s tears will become soft and the meat’s flavors will infuse into the soup, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Furthermore, Job’s tears can be stir-fried with other ingredients. For example, combining Job’s tears with shrimp, peas, and other ingredients to make a dish like stir-fried Job’s tears with shrimp and peas. In this dish, the contrast between the texture of Job’s tears, the succulence of shrimp, and the crispness of peas creates a harmonious and balanced flavor profile.
Lastly, Job’s tears can be used to prepare desserts. By cooking Job’s tears with red beans, lotus seeds, and adding an appropriate amount of rock sugar, you can create Job’s tears red bean and lotus seed sweet soup. This dessert not only has a sweet taste but is also nutrient-rich, making it ideal for consumption during cold winters to warm both the body and the heart.
Understanding the contraindications of Job’s tears, let’s now discuss control over the quantity consumed.
Excessive consumption of any food can lead to discomfort, and Job’s tears are no exception. It is recommended to consume Job’s tears in moderation to avoid issues such as bloating or digestion problems. Generally, daily consumption should be kept within the range of 15-30 grams.
Health Tip:
Raw Job’s tears may contain some antinutritional factors. Ensure they are cooked before consumption to minimize potential adverse reactions. Cooking Job’s tears not only aids digestion but also enhances the release of their nutritional components.
As Job’s tears do not have notable toxic side effects, they are suitable as a long-term health food. Consuming Job’s tears can supplement the body with nutrients and energy, alleviate fatigue, and enhance overall physical well-being.
Job’s tears, as a nutritious ingredient, is widely used in dietary therapy and traditional medicine. However, as mentioned earlier, it is not suitable for everyone. By consuming in moderation and adjusting the diet according to individual constitution, Job’s tears can be a beneficial addition to a healthy lifestyle. While savoring the deliciousness and nutrients Job’s tears bring, it is essential to understand and respect the signals from your body and choose foods that suit you best.
