- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia (East Asia)
Asia · Food · № 390
Glycine max
Food · Asia
Soy
Glycine max
Traditionally attributed effects: base for a gentle cleanser.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Chinese materia medica: Not during breastfeeding, as milk production may decrease.
Preparation
External: soy milk (or almond milk) in chamomile powder cleanser.
Use in traditions
Described in natural skin and hair care. The black soybean is fermented into dan dou chi, which is used for early colds and restlessness. In East Asia soybeans are the basis of tofu, soy sauce and miso. Soybean oil is used in skin care.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Natural skin and hair care
Attributed effects
Base for a gentle cleanser.
Preparation and amount
External: soy milk (or almond milk) in chamomile powder cleanser.
Chinese materia medica
- Nature and taste
- sweet, slightly bitter, cold (fermented black bean)
- Meridians
- lung, stomach
Attributed effects
The prepared black soybean (dan dou chi) opens the surface in colds, fever and headache, both in wind-heat and wind-cold, and relieves restlessness, a tight feeling in the chest and insomnia after a febrile illness. Depending on the herbs it is fermented with, it is cool or warm. Sprouted soy (dou juan) is neutral and is used for summer heat with dampness, joint pain and diarrhoea.
Preparation and amount
Traditional dosage: 12–15 g a day, for the fermented bean. Because of its mild taste suitable for children.
Combinations
- With gardenia for restlessness and insomnia after fever
Caution: Not during breastfeeding, as milk production may decrease.
Chinese food therapy
Attributed effects
Tofu is a good source of protein in Chinese cooking, for example in fish soup with papaya; soy sauce is a standard flavouring.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Powder and kitchen