Can boiling Chinese chives in water and adding vinegar tonify the kidneys and enhance yang?

Jun 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I've been experiencing some kidney yang deficiency. A friend told me that boiling Chinese chives in water with vinegar can help nourish the kidneys. Can boiling Chinese chives in water with vinegar really tonify the kidneys and enhance yang?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. He Haochen
In traditional Chinese medicine, boiling Chinese chives in water and adding vinegar is believed to have the effect of tonifying the kidneys and enhancing yang energy. Chinese chives themselves are considered warm in nature and possess properties that warm and support yang energy, promote circulation of qi and blood, and strengthen kidney function. Vinegar, on the other hand, is known for promoting blood circulation, resolving blood stasis, and regulating qi flow. Therefore, in theory, drinking boiled Chinese chive water with vinegar may improve blood circulation and enhance gonadal secretion, potentially offering certain kidney-tonifying and yang-strengthening benefits, especially for men. It should be noted, however, that this remedy cannot replace medical treatment, and its effects may vary from person to person. Individuals with kidney yang deficiency are advised to seek dietary adjustments and medical treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Moreover, consuming boiled Chinese chive water with vinegar may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and should not be taken long-term. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and individuals with spleen and stomach deficiency-cold should exercise particular caution when consuming this preparation.