What are the health benefits and effects of consuming Dendrobium (Shihu)?
Nov 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Dendrobium (Shihu) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Boiling or steeping it in hot water for consumption generally has various effects and benefits, including improving sleep quality, promoting eye health, regulating blood sugar levels, providing antioxidant and anti-aging properties, nourishing yin, and clearing internal heat. However, Shihu should be avoided by pregnant women, individuals with excessive cold-dampness, those with yang deficiency and cold constitution, as well as people with a hot body type. Additionally, attention should be paid to proper dosage and contraindications regarding combinations when taking Shihu to prevent adverse reactions.
Dendrobium is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. Boiling or steeping it in water for consumption typically offers various benefits, including improving sleep quality, protecting eyesight, regulating blood sugar levels, providing antioxidant and anti-aging effects, and nourishing yin to clear heat. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Improving Sleep Quality
Certain components in Dendrobium, such as volatile oils and alkaloids, have calming and soothing effects, which can help improve sleep quality and reduce problems such as insomnia and excessive dreaming. Individuals experiencing high stress or work-related tension can consume it moderately to help enhance their quality of life and work efficiency.
2. Protecting Eyesight
The active ingredients in Dendrobium protect ocular tissues and can slow down vision deterioration. It is suitable for individuals who overuse their eyes for prolonged periods, such as frequent computer or mobile phone users, as well as the elderly or those with eye conditions. Dendrobium can alleviate symptoms such as dry and irritated eyes, blurred vision, and eye fatigue, and may also offer some auxiliary therapeutic effect for night blindness.
3. Regulating Blood Sugar
Effective components in Dendrobium can promote insulin secretion and enhance glucose utilization in tissues, thereby exerting a regulatory effect in diabetic patients. It can also inhibit intestinal glucose absorption and suppress glycogen enzyme breakdown in the liver, thus lowering blood sugar levels.
4. Antioxidant and Anti-aging Effects
Dendrobium is rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which possess strong antioxidant properties. These substances can eliminate free radicals in the body, delay cellular aging, and positively impact skin health and anti-aging. Long-term moderate consumption of Dendrobium can help maintain skin elasticity and luster, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
5. Nourishing Yin and Clearing Heat
Dendrobium has a slightly cold nature and sweet taste, affecting the lung and stomach meridians. It effectively nourishes yin and clears internal heat. It can nourish bodily fluids and relieve symptoms caused by yin deficiency and excessive internal heat, such as dry mouth and throat, tidal fever, and night sweats. This effect is attributed to various active components in Dendrobium, such as alkaloids and polysaccharides, which help regulate the body's yin-yang balance and achieve the effect of clearing heat and reducing fire.
However, Dendrobium should be avoided by pregnant women, individuals with excessive cold-dampness, those with yang deficiency and cold constitution, and individuals with a hot body type. Additionally, attention should be paid to the dosage and compatibility restrictions when consuming Dendrobium to prevent adverse reactions.
