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The efficacy of drinking water infused with Polygala tenuifolia (Yuan Zhi)

Jan 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Polygala root (Yuan Zhi) has a calming effect on the mind and can alleviate symptoms such as restlessness, insomnia, and vivid dreaming. It is particularly effective for insomnia caused by disharmony between the heart and kidneys. Yuan Zhi harmonizes the heart and kidneys, facilitates the balance of water and fire elements, promotes sleep onset, and improves sleep quality. Additionally, Yuan Zhi enhances cognitive function and may help improve conditions such as memory decline.

Polygala root is a traditional Chinese herb that can be used both medicinally and as food. Drinking it steeped in water generally has effects including calming the mind and enhancing intelligence, removing phlegm and opening the orifices, reducing swelling and relieving pain, regulating emotions, and boosting immunity.

1. Calming the Mind and Enhancing Intelligence

Polygala root has a calming effect and can help alleviate symptoms such as restlessness and insomnia with frequent dreams. It is particularly effective for insomnia caused by disharmony between the heart and kidney. Polygala root can harmonize the heart and kidney, balance water and fire, facilitate sleep, and improve sleep quality. Additionally, it enhances intelligence and can improve conditions such as memory decline.

2. Removing Phlegm and Opening the Orifices

Polygala root is an herb particularly effective in removing phlegm. It can thin mucus, making it easier to cough up, and is very effective in treating coughing with excessive phlegm. Whether the phlegm is cold or hot in nature, Polygala root can exert its phlegm-removing effect. Moreover, it has the function of opening the orifices, and can help improve symptoms such as impaired consciousness and mania caused by phlegm obstructing the heart orifices.

3. Reducing Swelling and Relieving Pain

Polygala root has certain therapeutic effects on abscesses and can promote their dissipation and reduce inflammatory responses. When superficial swellings such as boils or other suppurative inflammations appear on the body surface, its active ingredients can inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators, reduce inflammation, and thereby alleviate pain and swelling.

4. Regulating Emotions

The calming and intelligence-enhancing effects of Polygala root not only help improve sleep but also regulate emotional states. It can relieve negative emotions such as tension and anxiety, helping individuals maintain a calm and stable mindset.

5. Boosting Immunity

Polygala root can stimulate the immune system and enhance the body's immune function. Drinking water infused with an appropriate amount of Polygala root can increase the body's resistance to diseases and help prevent illnesses such as colds.

It is recommended to consume Polygala root water in moderation and avoid excessive intake. In daily diet, maintaining a balanced dietary structure and diverse food intake is recommended to help maintain overall health.

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