Can Ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin) be consumed directly by soaking it in water?

Generally, it is not recommended to consume Ejiao (donkey-hide gelatin) blocks by steeping them directly in water. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Ejiao is a nourishing supplement primarily composed of collagen and multiple amino acids. It is known for benefits such as promoting blood production, stopping bleeding, and relieving dryness. If Ejiao blocks are steeped directly in water, they may not dissolve completely, which reduces their nutritional value and makes it harder for the body to fully absorb and utilize their benefits. Moreover, Ejiao has a sticky and greasy nature that can be difficult to digest. Consuming it directly in water may burden the spleen and stomach, potentially causing discomforts such as abdominal distension and diarrhea.

If you wish to consume Ejiao with water, it is advisable to first crush the Ejiao block into powder or small granules. This increases the surface area in contact with water, facilitating easier dissolution. Alternatively, Ejiao can be melted using the "Yang Hua" method: place the crushed Ejiao pieces into a bowl, add an appropriate amount of rice wine or water, heat the bowl over water while continuously stirring until the Ejiao completely dissolves, then mix in an appropriate amount of warm water for consumption.

In daily life, attention should be paid to proper storage of Ejiao to avoid moisture and mold, ensuring food safety. During consumption, Ejiao should also be taken in moderation, avoiding excessive intake to prevent adverse effects on the body.