Dried Water Chestnut

Dried Water Chestnut (Ma Ti Gan): A Cooling Herb for Heat Relief, Hydration, and Digestive Support

Introduction

Dried Water Chestnut, known as Ma Ti Gan (马蹄干) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is made from the dried tuber of Eleocharis dulcis. It is valued for its sweet, cooling nature and its ability to clear heat, promote body fluids, and ease digestive discomfort. With its crisp, mildly sweet flavor, it is commonly used in soups, teas, and dietary therapy to soothe internal heat and support overall wellness.

What Is Dried Water Chestnut?

Dried Water Chestnut is prepared by peeling, slicing, and dehydrating fresh water chestnuts. In TCM, it enters the Lung and Stomach meridians. It is especially helpful for heat-related thirst, dry mouth, digestive sluggishness, mild cough, and symptoms linked to internal heat or dryness.

Health Benefits of Dried Water Chestnut (Ma Ti Gan)

Clears Heat and Soothes Thirst
Helps relieve internal heat signs such as dry mouth, irritability, and excess thirst.

Promotes Body Fluids
Supports hydration and fluid generation, especially during heat, dryness, or recovery from fever.

Supports Digestive Comfort
Helps ease indigestion, mild bloating, and sluggish digestion while gently supporting the Stomach.

Benefits the Lungs
Moistens dryness and may help soothe mild dry cough or throat irritation.

Supports Detoxification
Traditionally used to assist the body in clearing residual heat and supporting gentle detox functions.

How to Use Dried Water Chestnut (Ma Ti Gan)

In Decoctions
Often simmered with cooling herbs or nourishing ingredients to relieve heat and support hydration.

In Soups
Commonly added to sweet or savory soups to promote fluid balance and digestive comfort.

In Teas
Steeped alone or combined with herbs like lotus root or pear for heat relief.

In Recipes
Used in congee, desserts, or herbal broths as a cooling ingredient that harmonizes the formula.

Where to Buy Dried Water Chestnut (Ma Ti Gan)

You can find Dried Water Chestnut at:

• Asian supermarkets
• Traditional Chinese medicine shops
• Herbal markets
• Online herbal suppliers

Look for:

• Clean, crisp slices
• Natural color (light beige)
• No mold or discoloration
• Products labeled specifically as “Ma Ti Gan” or “Dried Water Chestnut”

Are There Any Side Effects?

Dried Water Chestnut is generally safe and gentle. Excessive intake may cause loose stools in people with weak digestion. Those with cold-type digestive issues or chronic diarrhea should use it cautiously. Pregnant individuals can consume it as food, but herbal use should be discussed with a practitioner.

Conclusion

Dried Water Chestnut (Ma Ti Gan) is a sweet, cooling herb valued for clearing heat, replenishing fluids, easing digestion, and soothing dryness. When used appropriately, it offers refreshing, nourishing support for overall balance and well-being.

FAQs

Can Dried Water Chestnut help with thirst from heat?
Yes, it helps relieve heat-induced thirst and dryness.

Is it good for digestion?
Yes, it gently supports the Stomach and helps ease mild indigestion or bloating.

Can it be used in soups?
Yes, it is commonly added to soups, teas, and congee for cooling and hydrating benefits.