Mulberry Root Bark & Adzuki Bean Crucian Carp Soup: A Traditional Recipe for Nourishing Vitality

Introduction to Traditional Dietary Formula

Mulberry Root Bark and Adzuki Bean Crucian Carp Soup is a time-honored Lingnan traditional dietary formula, crafted with *Morus alba* root bark (White Mulberry root bark), *Vigna umbellata* (Rice Bean), and fresh *Carassius auratus* (Crucian Carp) as the key ingredients, supplemented with *Zingiber officinale* rhizoma (Ginger) and *Citrus reticulata* pericarpium (Tangerine Peel) and simmered to perfection. This soup is widely recognized as the “Golden Dampness-Balancing Soup” among the populace, particularly in southern China, where during the plum rain season or periods of Damp-Heat, many families prepare a pot to help support internal balance and maintain overall wellness.

The formulation of this traditional diet is rooted in the TCM theory of “food and medicine sharing the same origin,” skillfully combining the lung-supporting and fluid-balancing effects of Mori Cortex (Mulberry Root Bark), the dampness-balancing and comfort-promoting properties of Phaseoli Calcarati Semen (Adzuki Bean), and the digestive-supporting and appetite-nourishing capabilities of Crucian Carp. These three ingredients complement each other, helping to maintain internal balance without overwhelming the body’s vital qi (zheng qi). The result is a classic soup with dual health-maintaining benefits. The soup has a milky white color, a fresh and sweet taste, and a perfect fusion of herbal aroma and fish flavor, making it suitable for people of all ages.

Historical Background

According to legend, the Mulberry Root Bark (Mori Cortex), Adzuki Bean (Vigna umbellata), and Crucian Carp (Carassius auratus) Decoction was first recorded in the dietary therapy notes of Lingnan physicians during the Qing Dynasty. It was initially used to support overall wellness in southern climates. Later, through refinements by successive generations of physicians, it gradually became a commonly used health-maintaining decoction in households and has been passed down to the present day.

Benefits of Traditional Dietary Support

The core supportive action of the *Sang Bai Chi Xiao Dou Ji Yu Tang* (Morus Root Bark and Adzuki Bean Crucian Carp Soup) is to **help maintain internal balance, support digestive health, and promote comfort**. Within this formula, *Chi Xiao Dou* (Adzuki Bean; *Vigna umbellata*) is adept at moving downward to promote healthy urine output, helping the body maintain proper fluid balance, thereby supporting comfort in daily life. *Sang Bai Pi* (Morus Root Bark; *Morus alba* root bark) serves to help maintain normal respiratory function, support the water passages, and assist the lung in its natural roles of dispersing and descending, thus encouraging the normal metabolism of body fluids.

Additionally, crucian carp itself possesses excellent restorative qualities, as it supports digestive health, helps maintain a healthy appetite, nourishes qi, and promotes blood nourishment. When combined with adzuki beans and mulberry root bark, it simultaneously supports fluid balance while protecting the digestive system, thereby helping to maintain overall vital energy. This combination is notably supportive for maintaining normal energy levels, appetite, and digestive regularity. Long-term moderate consumption may also help maintain healthy skin, supporting a clear complexion.

The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine

From the perspective of TCM pattern differentiation, the Sangbaipi-Chixiaodou-Carp Soup mainly supports the Lung, Spleen, and Kidney systems. Sangbaipi (Mori Cortex, mulberry root bark) enters the Lung meridian (LU), is cooling in nature and sweet in flavor. It helps maintain normal lung function, supports respiratory comfort, and promotes healthy urine output, showing good support for occasional respiratory discomfort and facial puffiness. Chixiaodou (Semen Phaseoli, adzuki bean) enters the Heart (HT) and Small Intestine (SI) meridians. It is adept at helping to maintain normal heat balance, supports healthy circulation, and promotes comfort, serving as a key herb for supporting overall fluid balance.

Crucian carp enters the Spleen, Stomach, and Large Intestine meridians; its nature is neutral and taste sweet. It helps warm the digestive center, nourishes vitality, and supports digestive health. When these three are used together, they support both Lung and Spleen functions, helping the body maintain harmony. This combination encourages the body’s natural process of maintaining internal balance, while simultaneously supporting the body’s righteous qi. This achieves the supportive effect of “encouraging balance without overwhelming the vital energy.” It is especially suitable for those who wish to support overall wellness during seasonal changes or periods of occasional lethargy.

Analysis of Classic Herb Combinations

In the formula, the combination of Mori Cortex (mulberry root bark) and Vignae Semen (small red bean) is particularly refined. Mori Cortex supports lung function to help regulate upper body fluids, while Vignae Semen supports fluid balance in the lower body. One diffuses and one drains, allowing the body to maintain fluid harmony. The crucian carp (Carassius auratus) resides in the center to nourish the spleen, supporting the transformation and transport of fluids. This formula supports all three burners simultaneously, with a precise and well-structured approach.

Suitable Populations

This soup is particularly suitable for people living in damp environments, such as those in southern coastal areas or office workers who spend long periods in air-conditioned rooms. It offers supportive benefits for individuals who occasionally experience a heavy sensation, temporary puffiness in the limbs, or changes in tongue coating—indicating a need for fluid balance support.

In addition, the following groups may find it beneficial: those seeking to maintain healthy blood pressure and lipid levels as part of a balanced lifestyle; individuals looking for gentle dietary support during stable phases; postpartum women seeking to support lactation (crucian carp itself is known to help nourish milk production); as well as children and elderly individuals looking to support healthy appetite and digestion. During seasonal transitions or in warm, humid weather, consuming it 1–2 times per week can help maintain overall vitality and support the body’s natural defenses.

Precautions

Although the Sang Bai Pi (Mulberry Root Bark) and Chi Xiao Dou (Adzuki Bean) Crucian Carp Soup has notable supportive effects, it is not suitable for everyone. The following groups should exercise caution or avoid consumption: First, those with a tendency toward internal dryness, presenting with occasional dryness sensations, as the formula’s strong fluid-balancing action may not be appropriate; second, those with a generally cool digestive system, characterized by a preference for warmth and occasional loose stools, as consumption may trigger temporary digestive discomfort.

Third, use with caution in pregnant women and those during menstruation. Both *Morus alba* root bark (Sang Baipi) and *Phaseolus calcaratus* (Chi Xiao Dou) have noticeable effects on fluid balance, which may require professional guidance. It is recommended to use under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Fourth, it is contraindicated in individuals allergic to fish or *Morus alba* root bark. Fifth, it is not suitable for those with specific kidney concerns without medical supervision. Additionally, those with extremely sensitive constitution or those taking other medications should consult a qualified practitioner first.

Ingredient Proportions in a Formula

The classic formula and proportions for Crucian Carp Soup with Mori Cortex and Semen Phaseoli (Sang Bai Chi Xiao Dou Ji Yu Tang) are as follows (based on one day’s dosage for a family of three): 1 fresh crucian carp (Carassius auratus, approximately 300-400g), 15g Mori Cortex (Sang Baipi, white mulberry root bark), 50g Semen Phaseoli (Chi Xiao Dou, adzuki bean), 15g fresh ginger slices (Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens, Shengjiang), 5g Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chen Pi, dried tangerine peel), 3 segments of Allii Fistulosi Bulbus (Cong Bai, scallion white), and an appropriate amount of salt. In this formula, Mori Cortex and Semen Phaseoli serve as the primary ingredients and should be used in sufficient dosage; ginger and Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium act as supporting ingredients, warming the digestive center and promoting comfort. They not only moderate the cooling nature of Mori Cortex but also enhance the digestive-supporting and fluid-balancing effects.

If used for targeted support, the amount of Sangbaipi (Morus alba root bark) can be increased to 20 grams, and Chixiaodou (Vigna umbellata, adzuki bean) to 60 grams. However, for daily health maintenance, it is recommended to follow the standard ratio above to maintain a gentle effect. All herbs and ingredients should be rinsed with clean water before cooking. Chixiaodou (adzuki bean) is best soaked for 2-3 hours in advance to shorten cooking time and improve texture.

Cooking Method

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients. Scale the crucian carp, remove the internal organs and gills, rinse thoroughly under running water, and pat dry with paper towels. Make two diagonal cuts on each side of the fish to enhance flavor absorption. Soak the adzuki beans (Phaseolus calcaratus) in cold water for at least 2 hours. Quickly rinse the mulberry root bark (Mori cortex) and tangerine peel (Citri reticulatae pericarpium) under running water to remove dust. Slice the fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale rhizoma) and set aside.

Step two: Fry the fish to enhance flavor. Heat a clay pot or soup pot over fire, add a small amount of cooking oil (about 10 ml), stir-fry fresh ginger slices (Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens) until fragrant, then add the crucian carp (Carassius auratus). Fry over medium-low heat until both sides turn slightly golden. This step is essential for achieving a milky white soup broth and must not be omitted.

Step 3: Add water and stew. Transfer the prepared fish along with the ginger slices into a soup pot. Add enough boiling water all at once (approximately 2000 ml), then add Cortex Mori (mulberry root bark), Semen Phaseoli (adzuki bean), and Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae (tangerine peel). Bring to a boil over high heat, skim off any foam, then reduce to low heat and simmer gently for 40–50 minutes. Note: avoid adding water during cooking if possible, so as not to affect the concentration and texture of the soup.

Step 4: Seasoning and serving. When the soup turns milky white and the adzuki beans (Vigna umbellata) become soft and start to burst, add chopped scallions and salt to taste. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, then turn off the heat. Before serving, remove the Morus alba root bark (Sangbaipi) and Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi) residue, and consume only the soup, fish, and adzuki beans. For a lighter texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve before drinking.

Consumption Tips

1. Timing of consumption is important: It is recommended to take it warm in the morning or afternoon, when the body’s yang qi is abundant, supporting fluid balance. Avoid consumption within 2 hours before bedtime to support restful sleep. Drink 2-3 times per week, with a continuous 2-week period as an observation cycle, and adjust frequency based on the body’s response.

2. Dietary Considerations: During the course of enjoying this decoction, maintain a light diet and avoid raw, cold, greasy, spicy, and overly salty foods, as they may hinder the fluid-balancing effect. Additionally, it is not advisable to consume tea, coffee, carbonated beverages, etc., simultaneously; it is recommended to space them at least one hour apart. If taking other herbal supplements concurrently, consult a healthcare professional to check for potential interactions.

3. Observe Individual Responses: After consumption, if you experience increased urine output, a feeling of lightness in the body, or changes in tongue appearance, these are normal effects. However, if discomfort such as dryness, temporary changes in bowel habits, or mild fatigue occurs, it may suggest the need to adjust frequency. In such cases, temporarily discontinue use and appropriately consume some nourishing foods, such as Chinese yam (Dioscorea opposita) and lily bulb (Lilium brownii). For children and the elderly, it is recommended to halve the concentration of the decoction and reduce the amount consumed.