Nourishing Your Health with Medicinal Diet during the Mangzhong Solar Term

As the world celebrates the arrival of the Mangzhong solar term, also known as the Grain in Ear period, it's time to embrace the traditional practice of medicinal diet. This period, which falls between June 5th and June 7th according to the Gregorian calendar, marks the transition from summer to autumn and is characterized by high temperatures, humidity, and a rapid increase in the growth of crops. To maintain a balanced and healthy body during this time, it's essential to incorporate a medicinal diet that focuses on cooling, nourishing, and balancing the body's energy.

Mangzhong is an ideal time to consume foods that are rich in moisture and vitamins, as they help to replenish the body's fluids and protect against heat-related illnesses. Below are some of the key medicinal foods to include in your diet during the Mangzhong solar term:

1. Bamboo Shoots: Known for their cooling properties, bamboo shoots are an excellent addition to soups, stir-fries, or salads. They are rich in dietary fiber and can aid digestion, making them a perfect choice for those prone to indigestion during the hot summer months.

2. Mung Beans: These tiny legumes are a staple in traditional Chinese cuisine and are highly regarded for their cooling effects. Mung beans can be used to make a refreshing cold soup or added to salads and stir-fries.

3. Cucumber: With its high water content and cooling properties, cucumber is a great choice for keeping the body hydrated and reducing internal heat. It can be enjoyed raw as a snack or added to a variety of dishes.

4. Bitter Melon: This unique fruit is known for its cooling and detoxifying properties. Bitter melon can be prepared in various ways, such as stir-fried, steamed, or juiced, and is believed to help regulate blood sugar levels and promote overall health.

5. Lily Bulbs: Rich in antioxidants, lily bulbs are a cooling and nourishing ingredient that can be used in soups, stews, or as a side dish. They are believed to support lung health and can help alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions.

In addition to incorporating these medicinal foods into your diet, it's essential to avoid or limit the consumption of spicy, fried, and high-fat foods, as they can exacerbate internal heat and lead to discomfort during the Mangzhong period.

Here's a simple recipe for a cooling and nourishing soup you can prepare during the Mangzhong solar term:

Cooling and Nourishing Mung Bean Soup

Ingredients:

- 1 cup of mung beans, soaked overnight

- 2 liters of water

- 1/2 cup of lotus seeds

- 1/4 cup of goji berries

- 1/2 teaspoon of rock sugar (optional)

- A pinch of salt

- A few slices of ginger

Instructions:

1. Rinse the soaked mung beans and drain any excess water.

2. In a large pot, combine the mung beans, water, lotus seeds, goji berries, ginger, and rock sugar (if using).

3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours or until the mung beans are tender.

4. Add salt to taste and serve warm or chilled.

Enjoying this cooling and nourishing mung bean soup during the Mangzhong solar term can help keep your body balanced, hydrated, and healthy. By incorporating medicinal foods and avoiding excessive heat-inducing foods, you can make the most of this seasonal transition and support your overall well-being.