Drink Ginger-Jujube Porridge When You Have a Cold
As weather turns colder, people are prone to catching colds. How can one effectively manage early cold symptoms?
Some individuals frequently suffer from diarrhea, constipation, and colds. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, this results from weakened immunity. To strengthen immunity, one should pay attention to diet.
Ginger is the best "weapon" against early cold symptoms such as fever, sneezing, and phlegm production.
Ginger is a commonly used herb in TCM, known for its ability to expel phlegm, dispel cold, invigorate qi, clear acne, and relieve asthma. Modern studies show ginger contains compounds like gingerol, shogaol, zingiberene, and gingerol, which possess anti-inflammatory, heat-reducing, and diaphoretic properties, alleviating symptoms like runny nose. Because ginger is spicy, many people find it hard to tolerate. When consuming, it is advisable to pair ginger with jujubes.
Korean medical texts such as *Dongui Bogam* and *Korean Medical Compilation* record that jujubes nourish qi and generate essence. Additionally, they treat anemia, gastrointestinal disorders, promote urination, and lower blood pressure.
Preparation of Ginger-Jujube Porridge:
Ingredients (for 4 servings): 2 small cups of rice, 4 slices of ginger, 5 jujubes, 12 cups of water, a small amount of salt.
Instructions: 1. Rinse rice three times and soak for 30 minutes; 2. Peel and slice ginger; 3. Remove cores from jujubes and halve them; 4. Place rice in a pot, lightly dry-fry, then add pre-measured water; 5. Stir rice evenly, then add jujubes and ginger slices; 6. Simmer over low heat until porridge is cooked; 7. Add a little salt.
Note: Children, individuals with severe eye congestion, and those with hemorrhoids should avoid this porridge.