Edema
Related Items: Bloating, Fluid Retention, Water Retention
Introduction
Checklist
Symptoms
Treatments
Dietary changes
Lifestyle changes
Supplements
Herbs
References
Abnormal accumulation of fluid beneath the skin is known as edema. This leads to a puffy appearance, often to a limb, most commonly a leg.
There are many causes of edema. In some cases, the underlying problem (for example, congestive heart failure or preeclampsia of pregnancy) must be medically treated in order for the edema to resolve. In other cases (such as chronic venous insufficiency, edema following minor trauma, or lymphedema resulting from damage to lymphatic vessels caused by surgery and other medical treatments), it is possible with both conventional and natural approaches to focus specifically on the edema. Unless edema is clearly due to minor trauma, it should never be treated until the underlying cause has been properly diagnosed by a healthcare professional. The discussion below deals only with situations in which it is safe to focus on the edema itself and not the underlying cause.
Checklist for Edema (Water Retention)
Rating Nutritional Supplements Herbs
Flavonoids (courmarin, hydroxyethylrutosides)
Flavonoids (diosmin and hesperidin combination)
Selenium (for lymphedema)
Flavonoids (quercetin)
Cleavers
Corn silk
Dandelion (leaves)
Goldenrod
Horse chestnut
Horsetail
Juniper
See also: Homeopathic Remedies for Edema
Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit.
Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit.
For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health benefit.
What are the symptoms of edema?
People with edema may notice that a ring on their finger feels tighter than in the past, or they might have difficulty in putting on shoes, especially toward the end of the day. They may also notice a puffiness of the face around the eyes, or in the feet, ankles, and legs. When edema is present, pressure on the skin, such as from the elastic band on socks, may leave an indentation that is slow to disappear. Edema of the abdomen, called ascites, may be a sign of serious underlying disease and must be immediately evaluated by a doctor.
Medical treatments for edema
Over the counter diuretics containing ammonium chloride and caffeine (Aqua-Ban®) may be used to relieve symptoms related to edema or water retention when taken five to six days before menses. More severe edematous conditions require medical attention.
Treatment of edema with prescription medications is limited to the use of diuretics, commonly referred to as “water pills.” Agents often used include the thiazide diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL®), indapamide (Lozol®), and metolazone (Zaroxolyn®); loop diuretics including furosemide (Lasix®), bumetanide (Bumex®), and torsemide (Demadex®); and potassium-sparing diuretics, such as spironolactone (Aldactone®), triamterene (Dyazide®, Maxzide®), and amiloride (Midamor®).
Commonly, treatment consists of managing the underlying condition, which may include inadequate nutrition; liver, heart, and kidney disease; or obstruction of blood or lymph flow. In some cases, a salt-restricted diet may be recommended.
Dietary changes that may be helpful for edema
High salt intake should be avoided, as it tends to lead to water retention and may worsen edema in some people. A controlled trial found that a low-salt diet (less than 2,100 mg sodium per day) resulted in reduced water retention after two months in a group of women with unexplained edema.1
Lifestyle changes that may be helpful for edema
If the edema is affecting one limb, the limb should be kept elevated whenever possible. This allows fluid to drain more effectively from the congested area. To decrease fluid buildup in the legs, people should avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time without moving.
Nutritional supplements that may be helpful for edema
Several double-blind trials2 3 4 5 have found that 400 mg per day of coumarin, a flavonoid found in a variety of herbs, can improve many types of edema, including lymphedema after surgery. However, a large double-blind trial detected no benefit using 200 mg coumarin twice daily for six months in women who had arm edema after mastectomy (surgical breast removal).6 (Coumarin should not be confused with the anticlotting drug Coumadin®.)
A group of semi-synthetic flavonoids, known as hydroxyethylrutosides are also beneficial for some types of edema.7 One double-blind trial found that 2 grams per day of hydroxyethylrutosides reduced ankle and foot edema in people with venous disorders after four weeks.8 Another double-blind trial found that 3 grams per day of hydroxyethylrutosides significantly reduced lymphedema of the arm or leg and lessened the associated uncomfortable symptoms.9
A combination of the flavonoids diosmin (900 mg per day) and hesperidin (100 mg per day) has been investigated for the treatment of a variety of venous circulation disorders.10 However, in a double-blind trial, this combination was not effective for lymphedema caused by breast cancer treatments.11
In a preliminary study, individuals with lymphedema of the arm or head-and-neck region were treated with approximately 230 mcg of selenium per day, in the form of sodium selenite, for four to six weeks. A quality-of-life assessment showed an improvement of 59%, and the circumference of the edematous arm was reduced in 10 of 12 cases.12
Because coumarin, hydroxyethylrutosides, and diosmin are not widely available in the United States, other flavonoids, such as quercetin, rutin, or anthocyanosides (from bilberry), have been substituted by doctors in an attempt to obtain similar benefits. The effect of these other flavonoids against edema has not been well studied. Also, optimal amounts are not known. However, in one study, quercetin in amounts of 30–50 mg per day corrected abnormal capillary permeability (leakiness),13 an effect that might improve edema. A similar effect has been reported with rutin at 20 mg three times per day.14 Doctors often recommend 80–160 mg of a standardized extract of bilberry, three times per day.
Whereas vitamin B6 is sometimes recommended for reducing edema, no research has investigated its effectiveness.
Are there any side effects or interactions with edema?
Refer to the individual supplement for information about any side effects or interactions.
Herbs that may be helpful for edema
A double-blind trial found that a formula containing butcher’s broom extract, the flavonoid hesperidin, and vitamin C, which is used in Europe to treat venous and lymphatic system disorders, was superior to placebo for reducing lymphedema.15 The amount of butcher’s broom extract typically used is 150 mg two or three times per day.
Herbs that stimulate the kidneys were traditionally used to reduce edema. Herbal diuretics do not work the same way that drugs do, thus it is unclear whether such herbs would be effective for this purpose. Goldenrod (Solidago cnadensis) is considered one of the strongest herbal diuretics.16 Animal studies show, at very high amounts (2 grams per 2.2 pounds of body weight), that dandelion leaves possess diuretic effects that may be comparable to the prescription diuretic furosemide (Lasix®).17 Human clinical trials have not been completed to confirm these results. Corn silk (Zea mays) has also long been used as a diuretic, though a human study did not find that it increased urine output.18 Thus, diuretic herbs are not yet well supported for use in reducing edema.
Aescin, isolated from horse chestnut seed, has been shown to effectively reduce post-surgical edema in preliminary trials.19 20 A form of aescin that is injected into the bloodstream is often used but only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
Horsetail has a diuretic (urine flow increasing) action that accounts for its traditional use in reducing mild edema. Although there is no clinical research that yet supports its use for people with edema, the German government has approved horsetail for this use. The volatile oils in juniper cause an increase in urine volume and in this way can theoretically lessen edema;21 however, there is no clinical research that yet supports its use for people with edema.
Cleavers is one of numerous plants considered in ancient times to act as a diuretic.22 It was therefore used to relieve edema and to promote urine formation during bladder infections.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
A new supplement and some weight loss plan
I have bought some new paint.. and to my surprise.. I was able to get into a size 16 I was surprised.. I have added another supplement to my agenda which supports the adrenal glands... It is product is by ARUVED( ayurveda ) my doctor didn't tell me he had his products on the shelf.. but I have. seems to have found them which now, i don't have to travel all the way to bellveiw.. Huh.. I'm happy about that. ashwagandha is the name of this herb.. I will be posting more about what it can do for the body..
So i did weigh myself finally and now I am weighing at 219.. yes.. I'm happy about this ... It would be nice to wear a dress size of 12,13,14 yes.. that would be my ideal..
Another topic..i have notice edema in my body.. so.. I will be doing research on the and what to do for this..
I am also hoping to get my teeth cleaned and finish dental work.. I need a lot of work done on my teeth .. I have had nightmare work done on my teeth.. some have literally sent me to the hospital.. Just a thought . I miss want to check out University of Washington.. Dental assisting. Maybe I could get some help with a lower cost. I will need to check this out.
So i did weigh myself finally and now I am weighing at 219.. yes.. I'm happy about this ... It would be nice to wear a dress size of 12,13,14 yes.. that would be my ideal..
Another topic..i have notice edema in my body.. so.. I will be doing research on the and what to do for this..
I am also hoping to get my teeth cleaned and finish dental work.. I need a lot of work done on my teeth .. I have had nightmare work done on my teeth.. some have literally sent me to the hospital.. Just a thought . I miss want to check out University of Washington.. Dental assisting. Maybe I could get some help with a lower cost. I will need to check this out.
LOTUS SEED: FOOD AND MEDICINE
by Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, Oregon
The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera; see Figure 1) is a fresh-water plant that grows in semitropical climates. It originated in India and was brought to other countries, ranging from Egypt to China, about 2,000 years ago. It is cultivated extensively in Southeast Asia (mostly in China), primarily for food, with much smaller amounts for herbal medicine. All parts of the plant are utilized, but the primary reason for its current widespread cultivation is to collect the rhizomes (sometimes referred to as roots) and seeds. The whole plant is harvested in late summer when the seeds have matured.
The rhizomes are a food used extensively in China and Japan, sold whole or in cut pieces, fresh, frozen, or canned. They are consumed as a vegetable, usually fried or cooked in soups. Japan is one of the primary users of the rhizomes, representing about 1% of all vegetables consumed there. Japan grows its own lotus but still has to import 18,000 tons of lotus rhizome each year, of which China provides 15,000 tons.
Lotus seeds (lianzi) are a major product of southern China, though production figures are not available. There is substantially less weight of the dried seeds per plant than the weight of the fresh rhizomes, so the total production quantities may be on the order of a few thousand tons. Additionally, lotus leaves are used as a flavoring and a wrapper for rice preparations in making dim sum; the plumules (large seed cases) are dried for use as decorations. Lotus stems are used in preparing salads and the dried flowers are used in cooked dishes, such as Mandarin Duck and Lotus Flowers; the fresh flowers are a common decoration. The bitter lotus embryos within the seeds, and the lotus stamens are primarily used as medicines rather than foods.
LOTUS SEED AS FOOD
The seeds are roasted or candied for eating directly; made into a paste for producing sauces and cake fillings (in mid-Autumn it is customary to serve "moon cakes" which have a filling made of lotus seeds and walnuts); and cooked in soups, usually with chicken or beans. An example of the latter is a soup presented at banquets for newlyweds, made with red beans and lotus seeds. Red beans (hongdou) represent strength, while lotus seeds (lianzi) symbolize the newlyweds being blessed with a child each year. The soup is also presented at the New Year's festival.
Red Bean and Lotus Seed Soup
14-ounce package red beans (also known as adzuki beans)
1.5 ounces lotus seeds
1 piece dried tangerine skin, soaked in hot water 10 minutes until soft
3/4 cup brown sugar
In a large pot, combine 7 cups cold water, red beans, lotus seeds and tangerine skin. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce heat and simmer, covered, with pot lid slightly ajar, for 1 and 1/4 hours to 1 and 1/2 hours or until beans become tender. When beans are tender and open, and lotus seeds soften, add sugar; stir. Turn off the heat, pour into a heated tureen and serve. Makes 6 servings. Because the soup is sweet, it is also served as a desert. Another desert preparation is:
Cream Lotus Seed Soup
8 ounces lotus seeds
8 ounce can of crushed pineapple
4 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup of sugar
8 maraschino cherries
Soak the lotus seeds in water overnight; combine drained lotus seeds and 3 cups water and bring to boil over medium heat for 15 minutes; remove from heat and drain. Smash the cooked lotus seeds in a blender and pour the resulting paste into a big bowl. Dissolve the cornstarch in four tablespoons of water, pour into a small cup and set aside. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil over medium heat in a non-stick pot, then add the sugar, salt, pineapple, and lotus paste. Return to a boil and mix in the cornstarch liquid. Stir constantly until smooth and thickened. Reduce the heat and simmer for one minute. Remove from heat, pour into a large bowl, place pieces of the cherries on the top and serve hot. Makes 6 servings.
Yet another example is this one with lotus and longan:
Sweet Lotus Seed Soup Dessert
9 ounces lotus seeds
3.5 ounces longan
3 ounces rock sugar
½ tsp bicarbonate soda
Put dried lotus seeds into a basin. Put just enough cold water to cover the lotus seeds and add bicarbonate of soda. Set aside for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Drain, then wash thoroughly. Bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Add soaked lotus seeds and cook until the seeds turn soft. Add dried longan and rock sugar. Simmer until longan turns soft and sugar dissolves. Serve this dessert either hot or cold. In Asia, this mixture is flavored with pandan leaves (two leaves are added during the last few minutes of simmering the longan and sugar).
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
Lotus seeds have been analyzed to determine their nutritional value. In 100 grams (yielding about 350 calories of energy), there are 63-68 grams carbohydrate (mostly starch), 17-18 grams of protein, and only 1.9-2.5 grams fat; the remainder is water (about 13%), and minerals (mainly sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus). As a protein source, lotus seeds are relatively good, with a one ounce serving (of dried seeds) providing 5 grams. The seeds are low in fiber and not a good source of vitamins. All the recipes given above are very low in fat, but high in carbohydrates.
MEDICINAL USES OF LOTUS SEED AND OTHER LOTUS PLANT PARTS
Lotus seeds are classified as astringents, being sweet and neutral, and benefiting the spleen, kidney, and heart. The sweet taste and nourishing qualities of the seed are responsible for the benefit to the spleen; this helps stop diarrhea associated with qi deficiency. The astringent quality helps prevent loss of kidney essence, so the seeds are used to treat weak sexual function in men and leukorrhea in women. The seed also has calming properties that alleviate restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia (more so in the whole seed with embryo). The medicinal dosage is 6-15 grams when it is combined with other herbs that have similar applications and double that when used as the main ingredient (the amount in the bean and lotus soup is about 7 grams per serving and in the cream lotus soup and sweet lotus desert about 37-40 grams per serving).
As an example of a therapy for diarrhea, one ounce of lotus seed is soaked in warm water for a few hours, then an adequate amount of rock sugar is added (to taste), and the mixture is simmered until the lotus seeds are well done. To this thick soup a cup of tea-made by steeping 5 g of black tea in boiling water-is added to yield the medicinal food. Traditional herb formulas for diarrhea are described in the next section.
Inside the seed there is a green embryo that is quite bitter; it is usually removed before the seed is provided as a food product. The embryo (lianzixin; heart of the lotus seed), is classified as bitter and cold and benefiting the heart; it dispels pathogenic heat from the heart to treat fidgets and spontaneous bleeding due to heat. The bitter components are isoquinoline alkaloids with sedative and antispasmodic effects. The alkaloids dilate blood vessels and thereby reduce blood pressure. Small amounts of the alkaloids are found in the seeds with embryo removed, and these may contribute an antispasmodic action for the intestines, helping to alleviate diarrhea.
The lotus leaves (heye) are also bitter, but neutral, and are said to benefit the stomach, spleen, and liver. They are used for treatment of summer heat syndrome and dampness accumulation; they also contain the lotus alkaloids with hypotensive effect. Lotus leaf has become popular for lowering blood lipids and treating fatty liver; it is commonly combined with crataegus, which promotes blood circulation and lowers blood fats, for that purpose. Lotus stems (hegeng) are used medicinally in the same way as the leaves for treatment of summer heat and are used also to treat tightness in the chest due to obstruction of qi circulation.
Lotus stamen (lianxu) is sweet, astringent, and neutral, benefiting the heart and kidney; it is mainly used for preventing discharge, such as treatment of leukorrhea or for frequent urination. It contains flavonoids and a small amount of alkaloids. Lotus nodes, the rhizome nodes (oujie), are astringent and neutral, benefiting the liver, lung, and stomach. They are mostly used to control bleeding. All the parts of the lotus have some antihemorrhagic effect, but the rhizome nodes are relied upon for that purpose specifically. The active component for reducing bleeding is not yet established, though quercetin and other flavonoids may play a role by improving capillary wall strength. By charcoaling the lotus plant parts, as is sometimes done, a hemostatic effect is assured, as charcoal itself has this effect (it promotes blood coagulation).
TRADITIONAL FORMULAS WITH LOTUS SEEDS
There are some well-known traditional formulas relying on lotus seeds as an important component. The best known is Sheng Ling Baizhu San (Ginseng and Atractylodes Combination), which is comprised of lotus seed, ginseng, hoelen, atractylodes, licorice, coix, dolichos, dioscorea, cardamon, atractylodes, and platycodon. The herbs tonify the spleen and aid circulation of moisture. The formula is indicated for weak digestion with chronic diarrhea. First described in the Hejiju Fang (1110 A.D.), Shen Ling Baizhu San has been made into a popular patent remedy.
Another lotus seed formula is Qipi Tang (Lotus and Citrus Combination), which is also a therapy for weak digestion leading to diarrhea. The formula contains lotus seed, ginseng, atractylodes, hoelen, licorice, alisma, dioscorea, citrus, and crataegus. All the ingredients are used to improve digestion and aid circulation of moisture to alleviate diarrhea. The formula Sishen Tang (Four Wonders Decoction; also called Dioscorea Combination) is made with lotus seed, dioscorea, hoelen, euryale (a seed from a relative of lotus), and coix. It is used for indigestion and diarrhea, and is considered a mild sedative.
A formula using lotus seed for a different application is Qingxin Lianzi Yin (Clear the Heart Lotus Seed Drink; or simply, Lotus Seed Combination), comprised of lotus seed, ginseng, astragalus, ophiopogon, plantago seed, lycium bark, hoelen, scute, and licorice. It is used for urinary disorders, including urinary stones, kidney inflammation, and urinary tract infection; it is also used for disorders of the reproductive organs, such as prostatitis and leukorrhea. The formula addresses a combination of dampness accumulation (ginseng, astragalus, lotus seed, hoelen, and licorice tonify the spleen to aid moisture circulation; plantago seed and hoelen drain excess moisture) and heat (lycium bark, scute, and ophiopogon clear heat, and are selected for persons of weaker constitution). The damp-heat syndrome leads to tenderness, swelling, and pain in the lower abdomen, urinary irregularity, and discharge of fluids.
Another astringent formula is Jinsuo Gujing Wan (Pill of Golden Lock; also called Lotus Stamen Formula), comprised of lotus stamen and lotus seed, dragon bone, oyster shell, tribulus, and euryale. All the ingredients have some astringent properties. Its basic function is to restrain (like a lock) any further loss of essence due to disease or aging. It is often used for urinary disorders, especially frequent urination and turbid urine. Jinsuo Gujing Wan, first described in Yifang Jijie (Analytic Collection of Medical Formulas, by Wang Ang, 1682), has been made into a popular patent remedy.
March 2002
Figure 1: Nelumbo nucifera.
by Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D., Director, Institute for Traditional Medicine, Portland, Oregon
The lotus (Nelumbo nucifera; see Figure 1) is a fresh-water plant that grows in semitropical climates. It originated in India and was brought to other countries, ranging from Egypt to China, about 2,000 years ago. It is cultivated extensively in Southeast Asia (mostly in China), primarily for food, with much smaller amounts for herbal medicine. All parts of the plant are utilized, but the primary reason for its current widespread cultivation is to collect the rhizomes (sometimes referred to as roots) and seeds. The whole plant is harvested in late summer when the seeds have matured.
The rhizomes are a food used extensively in China and Japan, sold whole or in cut pieces, fresh, frozen, or canned. They are consumed as a vegetable, usually fried or cooked in soups. Japan is one of the primary users of the rhizomes, representing about 1% of all vegetables consumed there. Japan grows its own lotus but still has to import 18,000 tons of lotus rhizome each year, of which China provides 15,000 tons.
Lotus seeds (lianzi) are a major product of southern China, though production figures are not available. There is substantially less weight of the dried seeds per plant than the weight of the fresh rhizomes, so the total production quantities may be on the order of a few thousand tons. Additionally, lotus leaves are used as a flavoring and a wrapper for rice preparations in making dim sum; the plumules (large seed cases) are dried for use as decorations. Lotus stems are used in preparing salads and the dried flowers are used in cooked dishes, such as Mandarin Duck and Lotus Flowers; the fresh flowers are a common decoration. The bitter lotus embryos within the seeds, and the lotus stamens are primarily used as medicines rather than foods.
LOTUS SEED AS FOOD
The seeds are roasted or candied for eating directly; made into a paste for producing sauces and cake fillings (in mid-Autumn it is customary to serve "moon cakes" which have a filling made of lotus seeds and walnuts); and cooked in soups, usually with chicken or beans. An example of the latter is a soup presented at banquets for newlyweds, made with red beans and lotus seeds. Red beans (hongdou) represent strength, while lotus seeds (lianzi) symbolize the newlyweds being blessed with a child each year. The soup is also presented at the New Year's festival.
Red Bean and Lotus Seed Soup
14-ounce package red beans (also known as adzuki beans)
1.5 ounces lotus seeds
1 piece dried tangerine skin, soaked in hot water 10 minutes until soft
3/4 cup brown sugar
In a large pot, combine 7 cups cold water, red beans, lotus seeds and tangerine skin. Bring to a boil over high heat, reduce heat and simmer, covered, with pot lid slightly ajar, for 1 and 1/4 hours to 1 and 1/2 hours or until beans become tender. When beans are tender and open, and lotus seeds soften, add sugar; stir. Turn off the heat, pour into a heated tureen and serve. Makes 6 servings. Because the soup is sweet, it is also served as a desert. Another desert preparation is:
Cream Lotus Seed Soup
8 ounces lotus seeds
8 ounce can of crushed pineapple
4 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
2/3 cup of sugar
8 maraschino cherries
Soak the lotus seeds in water overnight; combine drained lotus seeds and 3 cups water and bring to boil over medium heat for 15 minutes; remove from heat and drain. Smash the cooked lotus seeds in a blender and pour the resulting paste into a big bowl. Dissolve the cornstarch in four tablespoons of water, pour into a small cup and set aside. Bring 6 cups of water to a boil over medium heat in a non-stick pot, then add the sugar, salt, pineapple, and lotus paste. Return to a boil and mix in the cornstarch liquid. Stir constantly until smooth and thickened. Reduce the heat and simmer for one minute. Remove from heat, pour into a large bowl, place pieces of the cherries on the top and serve hot. Makes 6 servings.
Yet another example is this one with lotus and longan:
Sweet Lotus Seed Soup Dessert
9 ounces lotus seeds
3.5 ounces longan
3 ounces rock sugar
½ tsp bicarbonate soda
Put dried lotus seeds into a basin. Put just enough cold water to cover the lotus seeds and add bicarbonate of soda. Set aside for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Drain, then wash thoroughly. Bring 5 cups of water to a boil. Add soaked lotus seeds and cook until the seeds turn soft. Add dried longan and rock sugar. Simmer until longan turns soft and sugar dissolves. Serve this dessert either hot or cold. In Asia, this mixture is flavored with pandan leaves (two leaves are added during the last few minutes of simmering the longan and sugar).
NUTRITIONAL VALUE
Lotus seeds have been analyzed to determine their nutritional value. In 100 grams (yielding about 350 calories of energy), there are 63-68 grams carbohydrate (mostly starch), 17-18 grams of protein, and only 1.9-2.5 grams fat; the remainder is water (about 13%), and minerals (mainly sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus). As a protein source, lotus seeds are relatively good, with a one ounce serving (of dried seeds) providing 5 grams. The seeds are low in fiber and not a good source of vitamins. All the recipes given above are very low in fat, but high in carbohydrates.
MEDICINAL USES OF LOTUS SEED AND OTHER LOTUS PLANT PARTS
Lotus seeds are classified as astringents, being sweet and neutral, and benefiting the spleen, kidney, and heart. The sweet taste and nourishing qualities of the seed are responsible for the benefit to the spleen; this helps stop diarrhea associated with qi deficiency. The astringent quality helps prevent loss of kidney essence, so the seeds are used to treat weak sexual function in men and leukorrhea in women. The seed also has calming properties that alleviate restlessness, palpitations, and insomnia (more so in the whole seed with embryo). The medicinal dosage is 6-15 grams when it is combined with other herbs that have similar applications and double that when used as the main ingredient (the amount in the bean and lotus soup is about 7 grams per serving and in the cream lotus soup and sweet lotus desert about 37-40 grams per serving).
As an example of a therapy for diarrhea, one ounce of lotus seed is soaked in warm water for a few hours, then an adequate amount of rock sugar is added (to taste), and the mixture is simmered until the lotus seeds are well done. To this thick soup a cup of tea-made by steeping 5 g of black tea in boiling water-is added to yield the medicinal food. Traditional herb formulas for diarrhea are described in the next section.
Inside the seed there is a green embryo that is quite bitter; it is usually removed before the seed is provided as a food product. The embryo (lianzixin; heart of the lotus seed), is classified as bitter and cold and benefiting the heart; it dispels pathogenic heat from the heart to treat fidgets and spontaneous bleeding due to heat. The bitter components are isoquinoline alkaloids with sedative and antispasmodic effects. The alkaloids dilate blood vessels and thereby reduce blood pressure. Small amounts of the alkaloids are found in the seeds with embryo removed, and these may contribute an antispasmodic action for the intestines, helping to alleviate diarrhea.
The lotus leaves (heye) are also bitter, but neutral, and are said to benefit the stomach, spleen, and liver. They are used for treatment of summer heat syndrome and dampness accumulation; they also contain the lotus alkaloids with hypotensive effect. Lotus leaf has become popular for lowering blood lipids and treating fatty liver; it is commonly combined with crataegus, which promotes blood circulation and lowers blood fats, for that purpose. Lotus stems (hegeng) are used medicinally in the same way as the leaves for treatment of summer heat and are used also to treat tightness in the chest due to obstruction of qi circulation.
Lotus stamen (lianxu) is sweet, astringent, and neutral, benefiting the heart and kidney; it is mainly used for preventing discharge, such as treatment of leukorrhea or for frequent urination. It contains flavonoids and a small amount of alkaloids. Lotus nodes, the rhizome nodes (oujie), are astringent and neutral, benefiting the liver, lung, and stomach. They are mostly used to control bleeding. All the parts of the lotus have some antihemorrhagic effect, but the rhizome nodes are relied upon for that purpose specifically. The active component for reducing bleeding is not yet established, though quercetin and other flavonoids may play a role by improving capillary wall strength. By charcoaling the lotus plant parts, as is sometimes done, a hemostatic effect is assured, as charcoal itself has this effect (it promotes blood coagulation).
TRADITIONAL FORMULAS WITH LOTUS SEEDS
There are some well-known traditional formulas relying on lotus seeds as an important component. The best known is Sheng Ling Baizhu San (Ginseng and Atractylodes Combination), which is comprised of lotus seed, ginseng, hoelen, atractylodes, licorice, coix, dolichos, dioscorea, cardamon, atractylodes, and platycodon. The herbs tonify the spleen and aid circulation of moisture. The formula is indicated for weak digestion with chronic diarrhea. First described in the Hejiju Fang (1110 A.D.), Shen Ling Baizhu San has been made into a popular patent remedy.
Another lotus seed formula is Qipi Tang (Lotus and Citrus Combination), which is also a therapy for weak digestion leading to diarrhea. The formula contains lotus seed, ginseng, atractylodes, hoelen, licorice, alisma, dioscorea, citrus, and crataegus. All the ingredients are used to improve digestion and aid circulation of moisture to alleviate diarrhea. The formula Sishen Tang (Four Wonders Decoction; also called Dioscorea Combination) is made with lotus seed, dioscorea, hoelen, euryale (a seed from a relative of lotus), and coix. It is used for indigestion and diarrhea, and is considered a mild sedative.
A formula using lotus seed for a different application is Qingxin Lianzi Yin (Clear the Heart Lotus Seed Drink; or simply, Lotus Seed Combination), comprised of lotus seed, ginseng, astragalus, ophiopogon, plantago seed, lycium bark, hoelen, scute, and licorice. It is used for urinary disorders, including urinary stones, kidney inflammation, and urinary tract infection; it is also used for disorders of the reproductive organs, such as prostatitis and leukorrhea. The formula addresses a combination of dampness accumulation (ginseng, astragalus, lotus seed, hoelen, and licorice tonify the spleen to aid moisture circulation; plantago seed and hoelen drain excess moisture) and heat (lycium bark, scute, and ophiopogon clear heat, and are selected for persons of weaker constitution). The damp-heat syndrome leads to tenderness, swelling, and pain in the lower abdomen, urinary irregularity, and discharge of fluids.
Another astringent formula is Jinsuo Gujing Wan (Pill of Golden Lock; also called Lotus Stamen Formula), comprised of lotus stamen and lotus seed, dragon bone, oyster shell, tribulus, and euryale. All the ingredients have some astringent properties. Its basic function is to restrain (like a lock) any further loss of essence due to disease or aging. It is often used for urinary disorders, especially frequent urination and turbid urine. Jinsuo Gujing Wan, first described in Yifang Jijie (Analytic Collection of Medical Formulas, by Wang Ang, 1682), has been made into a popular patent remedy.
March 2002
Figure 1: Nelumbo nucifera.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
cream of tarter uses
Cream of tartar is best known in our kitchens for helping stabilize and give more volume to beaten egg whites. It is the acidic ingredient in some brands of baking powder. It is also used to produce a creamier texture in sugary desserts such as candy and frosting, because it inhibits the formation of crystals. It is used commercially in some soft drinks, candies, bakery products, gelatin desserts, and photography products. Cream of tartar can also be used to clean brass and copper cookware.
If you are beating eggs whites and don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute white vinegar (in the same ratio as cream of tartar, generally 1/8 teaspoon per egg white). It is a little more problematic to find a substitute for cream of tartar in baking projects. White vinegar or lemon juice, in the ratio of 3 times the amount of cream of tartar called for, will provide the right amount of acid for most recipes. But that amount of liquid may cause other problems in the recipe, and bakers have found that cakes made with vinegar or lemon juice have a coarser grain and are more prone to shrinking than those made with cream of tartar.
If you are beating eggs whites and don't have cream of tartar, you can substitute white vinegar (in the same ratio as cream of tartar, generally 1/8 teaspoon per egg white). It is a little more problematic to find a substitute for cream of tartar in baking projects. White vinegar or lemon juice, in the ratio of 3 times the amount of cream of tartar called for, will provide the right amount of acid for most recipes. But that amount of liquid may cause other problems in the recipe, and bakers have found that cakes made with vinegar or lemon juice have a coarser grain and are more prone to shrinking than those made with cream of tartar.
Arrowroot used as a thikener
Arrowroot
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Order Arrowroot Online
General Description
Arrowroot is a white powder extracted from the root of a West Indian plant, Marantha arundinacea. It looks and feels like cornstarch.
Geographical Sources
Arrowroot is grown in Brazil and Thailand
Traditional Ethnic Uses
Arrowroot is used as a thickening agent for sauces, fruit pie fillings and glazes, and puddings.
Taste and Aroma
Arrowroot has no flavor.
History/Region of Origin
Arrowroot is indigenous to the West Indies, where native people, the Arawaks, used the powder. The Arawaks used the substance to draw out toxins from people wounded by poison arrows. Its name is thought to be derived from that practice.
A Few Ideas to Get You Started
Arrowroot mixtures thicken at a lower temperature than mixtures made with flour or cornstarch. Mix Arrowroot with cool liquids before adding hot liquids, then cook until mixture thickens. Remove immediately to prevent mixture from thinning. Two teaspoons of Arrowroot can be substituted for 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. One teaspoon of Arrowroot can be substituted for 1 tablespoon of flour. Arrowroot makes clear, shimmering fruit gels and prevents ice crystals from forming in homemade ice cream
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Order Arrowroot Online
General Description
Arrowroot is a white powder extracted from the root of a West Indian plant, Marantha arundinacea. It looks and feels like cornstarch.
Geographical Sources
Arrowroot is grown in Brazil and Thailand
Traditional Ethnic Uses
Arrowroot is used as a thickening agent for sauces, fruit pie fillings and glazes, and puddings.
Taste and Aroma
Arrowroot has no flavor.
History/Region of Origin
Arrowroot is indigenous to the West Indies, where native people, the Arawaks, used the powder. The Arawaks used the substance to draw out toxins from people wounded by poison arrows. Its name is thought to be derived from that practice.
A Few Ideas to Get You Started
Arrowroot mixtures thicken at a lower temperature than mixtures made with flour or cornstarch. Mix Arrowroot with cool liquids before adding hot liquids, then cook until mixture thickens. Remove immediately to prevent mixture from thinning. Two teaspoons of Arrowroot can be substituted for 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. One teaspoon of Arrowroot can be substituted for 1 tablespoon of flour. Arrowroot makes clear, shimmering fruit gels and prevents ice crystals from forming in homemade ice cream
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