What are the benefits of泡 water with 胖大海 and 甘草? Note: "胖大海" translates to "Sterculia lychnophora" or "Chinese magnolia vine", and "甘草" translates to "licorice". A more natural English phrasing for the context of herbal remedies would be: What are the health benefits of steeping Sterculia lychnophora and licorice in water?
Mar 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the benefits of泡 water with Sterculia lychnophora and licorice include harmonizing medicinal properties, lubricating the intestines to relieve constipation, soothing the throat and detoxifying, clearing heat and moistening the lungs, and enhancing immunity. If you need to use the aforementioned herbs, it is recommended to consult a physician. Licorice is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine as a harmonizing agent, capable of moderating the strong properties of other herbs and preventing excessive medicinal effects that may harm the body.
Generally, the benefits of drinking water infused with Sterculia lychnophora (Pang Dahai) and licorice include harmonizing medicinal properties, moistening the intestines and relieving constipation, promoting throat health and detoxification, clearing heat and moistening the lungs, and enhancing immunity. If intending to use these herbs, it is recommended to consult a physician first. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Harmonizing Medicinal Properties
Licorice is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine as a harmonizing agent. It can moderate the strong properties of other herbs, preventing excessive effects that might harm the body. When used in combination with other medicinal materials for infusion, it helps balance the overall therapeutic effect.
2. Moistening the Intestines and Relieving Constipation
Sterculia lychnophora contains acetylcholine, which can stimulate intestinal motility and aid in bowel movements, thereby helping to relieve constipation. When combined with licorice in an herbal infusion, the effect of moistening the intestines and relieving constipation can be further enhanced.
3. Promoting Throat Health and Detoxification
Sterculia lychnophora is effective in alleviating throat discomfort, such as sore throat and hoarseness. Licorice also has a soothing effect on sore throats. When used together in an infusion, the two herbs synergistically enhance the effect of promoting throat health and detoxification, helping to protect the throat.
4. Clearing Heat and Moistening the Lungs
Sterculia lychnophora has a cooling nature and can effectively relieve symptoms caused by excessive internal heat in the lungs, such as coughing and unsatisfactory phlegm expectoration. Licorice also has heat-clearing properties. When used together in an infusion, they enhance the effect of clearing heat and moistening the lungs, contributing to improved respiratory health.
5. Enhancing Immunity
Various active components in both Sterculia lychnophora and licorice can enhance immune function and improve the body's resistance to diseases. Drinking Sterculia lychnophora and licorice infusion in moderation can help prevent common illnesses such as colds and influenza.
However, individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold should use it cautiously to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort. Additionally, long-term and excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent adverse effects on the body.
