Nardostachytis Rhizoma Porridge

[Records on Diet Differentiation]

[Porridge Composition] 5 grams of Nardostachys Root and Rhizome (gan song), 30-60 grams of japonica rice.

[Efficacy and Indications] Promoting the flow of qi to helps with occasional pain, tonifying the Spleen and strengthening the stomach. It is applicable for chest pain due to Qi Stagnation, abdominal distension and pain, poor appetite, and vomiting caused by stomach cold.

[Decoction Method] First, decoct Nardostachytis Radix et Rhizoma to obtain the juice and remove the dregs. Then, cook porridge with japonica rice. When the porridge is almost done, add the Nardostachytis Radix et Rhizoma juice and continue to cook for one or two boils.

[Explanation of Congee Efficacy] Nardostachys Root, also known as “Fragrant Nardostachys”, is the rhizome of Nardostachys jatamansi, a perennial dwarf herbaceous plant from the Valerianaceae family. It is mainly produced in Songzhou, western Sichuan. It tastes sweet and has a fragrant aroma, hence it is also named “Sweet Fragrant Nardostachys”, and later simply referred to as “Nardostachys Root”. Currently, besides being primarily produced in Sichuan, it is also produced in Gansu and Qinghai. For medicinal use, the rhizomes with thick main roots, long strips, and strong fragrance are considered the best.

According to ancient TCM texts, Nardostachys Root (Gan Song) specifically enters the Spleen and Stomach meridians (SP, ST), with a warm nature and non-toxic properties. Compendium of Materia Medica states: “Nardostachys Root, with its aromatic quality, can dispel Spleen stagnation. When added in small amounts to Spleen-Stomach formulas, it powerfully awakens Spleen qi.” Materia Medica Synopsis records: “Nardostachys Root is a medicine that awakens the Spleen and unblocks the Stomach. Its aromatic qi, when incorporated into Spleen-Stomach supports, significantly strengthens Spleen function, harmonizes qi flow, and promotes digestion.” It further notes: “For elderly patients with Spleen deficiency causing anorexia or chronic diarrhea with collapse, this herb is warm without being heating, aromatic without being drying, sweet without causing stagnation—truly harmonious and excellent.” Clinical practice confirms Nardostachys Root regulates Qi Stagnation, awakens Spleen-Stomach function, and helps with occasional pain. It “supplements deficient gastric juices and enhances digestive capacity,” making it suitable for gastric pain, abdominal distension, headache, and poor appetite.

Nardostachys Root boiled with rice to make gruel has a sweet and fragrant medicinal flavor, making it particularly suitable for patients with poor appetite, indigestion, and epigastric and abdominal pain. According to Zhang Mu’s Yin Shi Bian Lu (Dietary Discrimination Records, Volume II) in the Qing Dynasty, “Nardostachys Root gruel, made by grinding the herb into a powder and adding it to the gruel, is effective for supports vomiting due to stomach cold, poor Spleen function, and is most effective in promoting the upward movement of stomach qi, stimulating the patient’s appetite.” Especially for middle-aged and elderly individuals with reduced digestive function, as well as those who are weak from wellness, regularly consuming Nardostachys Root gruel can be highly beneficial for stimulating appetite and aiding digestion.

[Precautions] Nardostachys Root Porridge should be taken as a course of supports lasting 3 to 5 days, twice daily on an empty stomach while warm. Since Nardostachys root contains volatile oils, it should not be overcooked or boiled for too long. It is not suitable for patients with fever.

Q1: What is nardostachys rhizoma porridge used for?

A1: Nardostachys rhizoma porridge is traditionally used to promote the flow of qi and relieve occasional pain, particularly chest pain caused by Qi Stagnation. It also helps tonify the Spleen and strengthen the stomach, making it beneficial for abdominal distension, poor appetite, and vomiting due to stomach cold.

Q2: How to make nardostachys rhizoma porridge?

A2: To make nardostachys rhizoma porridge, first decoct 5 grams of Nardostachys Root and Rhizome (gan song) in water to obtain the juice. Then combine the juice with 30-60 grams of japonica rice and cook until the porridge is thick and well-blended.

Q3: Is nardostachys rhizoma porridge good for digestion?

A3: Yes, nardostachys rhizoma porridge is good for digestion as it tonifies the Spleen and strengthens the stomach, according to traditional dietary therapy. It is especially indicated for poor appetite and vomiting caused by stomach cold, helping to improve digestive function.

Q4: Can nardostachys rhizoma porridge alleviate abdominal distension?

A4: Yes, nardostachys rhizoma porridge can help alleviate abdominal distension and pain due to its qi-promoting and stomach-strengthening properties. It is traditionally used for conditions like chest pain from Qi Stagnation and abdominal discomfort.

Q5: What ingredients are needed for nardostachys rhizoma porridge?

A5: The porridge composition requires 5 grams of Nardostachys Root and Rhizome (gan song) and 30-60 grams of japonica rice. The rhizome is first decocted to extract its beneficial compounds before cooking with the rice.