Does Dog's Liver Weed Soup with Soy Beans Help to Excrete Dampness

In traditional Chinese medicine, dampness is considered a common health issue, often leading to discomforts like fatigue, weight gain, and digestion problems. Many people turn to natural remedies to alleviate dampness, and one such remedy is the dog's liver weed (Cynanchum wilfordii) and soy bean soup. But does this soup really help in excreting dampness? Let's explore the traditional claims, ingredients, and the science behind this popular remedy.

Traditional Claims

According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), dog's liver weed and soy bean soup are believed to help expel dampness from the body. Dampness is a TCM concept that refers to an imbalance in the body's fluids, which can be caused by various factors, including diet, environment, and lifestyle.

Dog's liver weed, also known as tian ma, is believed to have diuretic properties, which can help to remove excess fluid and relieve symptoms associated with dampness. On the other hand, soy beans, known as dou miao, are considered to be cooling and nourishing, which can help to balance the body's Yin and Yang, thus alleviating dampness.

Ingredients

The main ingredients in this soup are dog's liver weed and soy beans. Here's a closer look at each:

1. Dog's Liver Weed (Cynanchum wilfordii):

- This herb is believed to have a bitter and sweet taste, and it's cold in nature.

- It's often used to treat conditions such as dizziness, tinnitus, and headaches, which are associated with dampness in TCM.

2. Soy Beans (Glycine max):

- Soy beans are a staple in many Asian diets and are known for their nutritional value.

- They are believed to be cooling and have a sweet taste, which can help to nourish the body and balance Yin and Yang.

How Does It Work?

While there is limited scientific evidence to support the traditional claims about dog's liver weed and soy bean soup, some research suggests that certain components of these ingredients may have health benefits.

1. Dog's Liver Weed:

- Studies have shown that some compounds in dog's liver weed may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help to alleviate symptoms associated with dampness.

2. Soy Beans:

- Soy beans are rich in isoflavones, which are believed to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers and improving heart health.

Preparing the Soup

To prepare the dog's liver weed and soy bean soup, follow these steps:

1. Ingredients:

- Dog's liver weed: 15-30 grams

- Soy beans: 50-100 grams

- Pork bone or chicken bones: 500-1000 grams

- Water: 2 liters

2. Instructions:

- Wash and soak the soy beans overnight.

- Soak the dog's liver weed in water for a few minutes.

- Boil the water and add the pork or chicken bones.

- Add the soaked soy beans and dog's liver weed.

- Simmer the mixture for about 2 hours, or until the soup becomes thick and the ingredients are tender.

- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Conclusion

While there is no definitive scientific evidence to support the claim that dog's liver weed and soy bean soup helps to excrete dampness, traditional Chinese medicine suggests that this soup may have health benefits due to its ingredients. If you're interested in trying this remedy, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that it's appropriate for your specific health needs.

Remember, while traditional remedies can be helpful, they should not replace conventional medical treatment. If you have concerns about dampness or any other health issues, it's important to seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.