Chu Shu- End of Heat
Yesterday on my walk in my neighborhood, I ran into an old client. She shared with me how much she enjoyed the pear recipe from our fall newsletter. I would love to continue hearing from you all; I appreciate so much hearing your feedback.
The traditional Chinese lunar calendar is divided into 24 solar terms. On August 22nd, we moved into the 14th solar term Chu Shu or “End of Heat.” This is the time of year when the intense summer heat starts to fade and we move into cooler nights and more mild days. Though North Carolina weather is quite temperamental and seems to change seasons every few days, the overall trend from this time of year is that of cooling.
Chu Shu is a time when Yin is growing. During Yin periods it is very important that we allow our bodies to rest. As animals begin their final preparations for hibernation and the leaves begin to change color, all life gravitates towards a period of rest. One should adopt the schedule of rising and setting with the sun. Going to bed before 11pm allows our bodies to properly go through the circadian rhythm, thus giving our lungs and immune system the boost they need.
As we move to a cooler season, we start seeing the phenomena of dry skin. Skin is the biggest organ in the body and plays a role in the immune system. Each internal organ manifests outside of the body: lungs to skin, liver to eyes, kidney to ears, spleen to lips, and stomach and heart to tongue.
The term immunity is not found in classical Chinese text; however, there is an understanding that sickness could still enter the body. This concept is known as Xie Qi, often translated to evil Qi. In Chinese medicine, we use moxa and acupuncture to strengthen the immune system. Some of you have already experienced moxa on Du 14 this week. Du 14 is located at the base of the neck and where it is believed evil Qi will attack the body. The symptoms of a weak immune system may include dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and vertigo.
Joints that are swollen due to injury, that don’t heal in time timely manner, are another sign of a weak immune system. When the immune system is weak, tendons and ligaments are much more at risk. (After talking about all of this, I suddenly have a trigger finger. : )
External pathogens are only one aspect that weakens the immune system. It is the time to use food as a medicinal tool to support your immune system. In turn, it is beneficial to avoid spicy foods as they have natural drying properties. Below is a great soup that is packed full of lung supporting ingredients. The key ingredient is the White Wood Ear mushroom. This mushroom is a Tremella Fuciformis species. I am sure to many of you Tremella sounds familiar, as it is an herb I often prescribe this time of year to help with dry coughs. With the added Asian pear and sweet potatoes this soup will give your lungs the moisture packed boost they crave this time of year!
White Wood Ear Mushroom Soup