Traditional Four-Herb Tonifying Chicken Soup

Traditional Four-Herb Tonifying Chicken Soup (4 to 6 servings)

Ingredients:

• Codonopsis pilosula (Dang Shen) – 2 oz (60 g)
• Astragalus membranaceus (Huang Qi) – 2 oz (60 g)
• Dioscorea villosa (Wild Yam) – 2 oz (60 g)
• Lycium barbarum (Goji berries) – 2 oz (60 g)
• Chicken (bone-in, skin removed if preferred) – 1 to 1.5 lbs (450–700 g)
• Water – 10–12 cups (2.5–3 L)
• Fresh ginger slices – 3–5 slices
• Salt – to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the herbs briefly under cool water to remove any debris.
2. Place the chicken into a large pot and add the water. Bring to a boil, then skim off any foam for a clearer broth.
3. Add all the herbs and ginger slices to the pot.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours.
5. Check occasionally and add a little water if needed to keep ingredients submerged.
6. Once done, season lightly with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot—drink the broth and eat the chicken and goji berries.

Optional Add-Ins (for a fuller soup):

• Carrots or daikon radish
• Chinese yam (fresh or dried)
• Red dates (jujube) for slight sweetness

Effects/Benefits

Herbal Ingredients

Codonopsis pilosula (Dang Shen): Tonifies Qi, supports digestion, and helps boost overall energy.

Astragalus membranaceus (Huang Qi): Strengthens Wei Qi (immune defense), supports vitality, and helps stabilize energy.

Dioscorea villosa (Wild Yam): Nourishes the spleen and stomach, supports digestion, and helps maintain fluid balance.

Lycium barbarum (Goji berries): Nourishes liver and kidney Yin, supports eye health, and gently boosts vitality.

Soup Ingredients

Chicken: Builds Qi and blood, strengthens the body, and supports recovery and nourishment.

Ginger: Warms the stomach, aids digestion, and helps reduce dampness.

(Optional) Red dates (jujube): Tonify blood, calm the spirit, and add gentle sweetness.

(Optional) Carrot/daikon: Support digestion and help balance the richness of the soup.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy is a complementary approach and should not replace professional medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition. Individual responses to herbs and foods may vary.