Can I add Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor) to boiled water with Chinese dates (red dates)?

Apr 27, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

Chinese date (Jujube) is warm in nature and enters the spleen and stomach meridians, possessing functions of replenishing vital energy and nourishing the blood to calm the mind. Ophiopogon (Radix Ophiopogonis) is slightly cold in nature and enters the heart, lung, and stomach meridians, excelling in nourishing yin to relieve dryness and promoting fluid production to quench thirst. When used together, these two ingredients can harmonize yin and yang, making them particularly suitable for individuals with deficiency in both qi and yin. For example, this combination can help improve physical condition in those experiencing symptoms such as dry mouth and throat, fatigue, weakness, or insufficient qi and blood.

Generally speaking, red dates can be cooked with Ophiopogon japonicus (McDoor), but whether it is suitable depends on individual constitution and needs. The specific analysis is as follows:

Red dates are warm in nature and enter the spleen and stomach meridians, having the effects of replenishing the middle energizer, invigorating qi, nourishing the blood, and calming the spirit. Ophiopogon japonicus is slightly cold in nature and enters the heart, lung, and stomach meridians, excelling at nourishing yin, moistening dryness, generating body fluids, and relieving thirst. When used together, these two ingredients can harmonize yin and yang, making them particularly suitable for individuals with deficiency of both qi and yin. For example, when symptoms such as dry mouth and throat, fatigue, weakness, or insufficient qi and blood occur, this combination can help improve physical condition and enhance constitution.

If the body constitution tends toward coldness or there is spleen and stomach deficiency, it is not advisable to cook red dates together with Ophiopogon japonicus. The warming and nourishing properties of red dates may be counteracted by the cooling nature of Ophiopogon japonicus, weakening the therapeutic effects, and may even cause indigestion or diarrhea. Additionally, if there are no obvious symptoms of qi and yin deficiency, combining them blindly may cause physical discomfort or burden.

During consumption, attention should be paid to adjusting lifestyle habits, maintaining a light diet, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods, keeping a regular作息 (作息 means "rest and work schedule," but it's better to use natural English), avoiding staying up late, maintaining a pleasant mood, and quitting smoking and alcohol.

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