Can cicada nymphs (Zhiliao hou) enhance male vitality and nourish the kidneys?
Aug 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
If bodily functions are normal and one merely wishes to enhance kidney function or strengthen yang energy through consumption of cicadas (nymphs), the nutrients they contain, such as protein, do not specifically regulate kidney function or enhance yang energy, thus failing to achieve the desired effects. In such cases, attempting this method is unnecessary. If there are issues such as weakened kidney function or insufficient yang energy, these are often related to constitutional factors, diseases, or other underlying conditions.
The cicada larva (cicada nymph) generally does not have a clear effect of invigorating kidney function or enhancing yang energy. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If bodily functions are normal and one merely attempts to enhance kidney function or boost yang energy through consuming cicada nymphs, the proteins and other nutrients contained therein do not specifically regulate kidney function or enhance yang energy, thus failing to achieve the desired effects. Therefore, it is unnecessary to try in such cases.
If there are issues such as weak kidney function or insufficient yang energy, these are often related to constitution or diseases, and require professional regulation or treatment. Cicada nymphs do not contain corresponding medicinal components and cannot achieve the effects of enhancing kidney function or boosting yang energy. Thus, relying on cicada nymphs for improvement is not advisable in such cases.
Cicada nymphs should be obtained from reliable sources and thoroughly cooked before consumption. If there is a need for enhancing kidney function or boosting yang energy, one should not rely on such food items but instead consult a healthcare professional and adopt scientifically-based methods for regulation.
