Easing Back Pain A Healing Soup Recipe to Boost Qi and Blood

Introduction:

Back pain can be a nagging and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While medical treatments and physical therapy are important, traditional Chinese medicine offers a unique approach to alleviating back pain through diet and herbal remedies. One such remedy is the preparation of a nourishing soup that aims to balance the body's qi (vital energy) and blood. In this article, we will explore how to create a healing soup that can help soothe your back and replenish your qi and blood.

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken or 4 to 5 chicken thighs

- 4 to 6 slices of fresh ginger

- 2 to 3 pieces of raw or dried dates

- 2 to 3 slices of goji berries

- 1 to 2 slices of Chinese wolfberry root (also known as He Shou Wu)

- 2 to 3 pieces of dried Chinese yam (Shan Yao)

- 1 teaspoon of honey or rock sugar

- 8 to 10 cups of water

- Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing the chicken. If using a whole chicken, remove any feathers, giblets, and excess fat. For chicken thighs, ensure they are clean and skinless if preferred.

2. Place the chicken in a large pot and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This process is known as blanching and helps remove impurities.

3. While the chicken is blanching, prepare the other ingredients. Rinse the fresh ginger and dates under cold water. If using goji berries or Chinese wolfberry root, ensure they are clean and dry.

4. After the chicken has simmered for 10 minutes, remove it from the pot and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also help keep the chicken tender.

5. In the same pot, add the fresh ginger slices, dates, goji berries, Chinese wolfberry root, and dried Chinese yam. Pour in the 8 to 10 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer and let the soup cook for at least 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together.

7. During the last 10 minutes of simmering, add the honey or rock sugar to sweeten the soup to your liking. Adjust the salt to taste.

8. Once the soup is ready, remove the chicken from the bones and shred it into bite-sized pieces. You can then return the shredded chicken to the pot or serve it separately.

9. Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve immediately. The steam from the soup can also help relax the muscles and soothe the pain.

Health Benefits:

- The chicken serves as a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body strength.

- Fresh ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate muscle pain and soreness.

- Dried dates and goji berries are known for their ability to nourish the blood and boost the body's energy.

- Chinese wolfberry root and yam are both tonifying herbs that can help strengthen the kidneys and improve overall vitality.

- The honey or rock sugar provides a natural sweetener that also has soothing properties.

Conclusion:

A warm, nourishing soup can be a simple yet effective way to address back pain by replenishing the body's qi and blood. By incorporating this healing soup into your diet, you may find relief from your back pain while promoting overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.