What are the functions and effects of Zhi Zhi?

Zhizhi should actually refer to Lichi pheasant (Lichi pheasant is the meat of the long-tailed pheasant, a member of the pheasant family). It has a sweet taste and neutral property, with minor toxicity. It generally has functions and effects such as nourishing the kidney and enhancing essence, strengthening the spleen and harmonizing the stomach, nourishing blood to calm the mind, replenishing qi and blood, and relieving asthma and cough. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Nourishing the kidney and enhancing essence: Lichi pheasant is rich in nutrients such as protein and amino acids, which help improve kidney function and reproductive capacity. For symptoms caused by kidney deficiency, such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, dizziness, and tinnitus, moderate consumption of Lichi pheasant can help nourish the kidney and enhance essence, thus alleviating these symptoms.

2. Strengthening the spleen and harmonizing the stomach: The meat of Lichi pheasant is tender and easily digested, thereby exerting a certain improving effect on spleen and stomach function. It helps relieve symptoms such as loss of appetite and diarrhea caused by weakness of the spleen and stomach, promotes digestion and absorption, and enhances overall health.

3. Nourishing blood and calming the mind: Lichi pheasant meat contains a relatively high amount of iron, which helps promote blood circulation and red blood cell production, thus exerting effects of nourishing blood and calming the mind. For symptoms such as pale complexion and insomnia with frequent dreams caused by blood deficiency, moderate consumption of Lichi pheasant can alleviate these symptoms and improve sleep quality.

4. Replenishing qi and blood: Lichi pheasant can enhance the circulation of qi and blood in the body. For symptoms such as fatigue and low spirits caused by qi deficiency, Lichi pheasant can provide certain therapeutic effects, making people feel energetic and vigorous.

5. Relieving asthma and cough: Lichi pheasant also has certain effects in alleviating asthma and cough. For symptoms such as cough and asthma caused by lung deficiency or wind-cold, moderate consumption of Lichi pheasant can help relieve the condition and improve respiratory function.

It is important to consume Lichi pheasant in moderation and pay attention to cooking methods to avoid excessive greasiness. Moreover, since Lichi pheasant has certain toxicity, it should be used under the guidance of a TCM physician to avoid blind consumption.