Product Overview
Sliced Dendrobium is dried, sliced stems of the Dendrobium officinale, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb known as Shi Hu in Chinese. It is a highly valued tonic in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dendrobium officinale is actually the stem of an orchid native to South and Southeast Asia. It has been used for medicinal purposes in Chinese culture for many centuries. Dendrobium is a type of orchid. The plant consists of a long, thin stem, which is golden yellow in color, with a flower at the end. Different varieties of dendrobium have different colors, but the most common colors are yellow and pink. The stem is used in herbal remedies.
For thousands of years, people in southern China have risked their lives to pick the “immortality herb” grown on the edge of cliffs to save patients in critical condition. You might have guessed by now that the herb mentioned is called dendrobium. In the legends, the juice of it can resurrect the dead. Of course, this is just a legendary saying, but it can offer another perspective on reviews of its rarity and efficacy. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be called “gold in medicine”. Besides, it is highly regarded as the No. 1 of the 9 “Chinese immortality herbs”. And its top 9 main health benefits are as follows:
1) Nourishing Yin and body fluid. The “China Pharmaceutical Dictionary” claims that it specializes in nourishing qi and fluid in the lungs and stomach. Hence, it treats a variety of diseases caused by a deficiency of yin and body fluid.
2) Enhancing physical fitness. It can tonify kidney essence, nourish the stomach Yin, and increase strength. And it is rich in polysaccharides that enhance immune function.
3) Replenishing the spleen and stomach. It is a commonly used herb for stomachache and epigastric pain. Modern medical experiments confirmed that it has a better inhibition on the pathogen Helicobacter pylori which is frequently found in spleen and stomach diseases, such as atrophic gastritis, superficial gastritis, duodenal ulcer, and more.
4) Protecting the liver and gallbladder. It has a good choleretic effect, which has been praised highly by many herbalists. As a result, it is often used as a major medicine for hepatobiliary diseases, such as hepatitis, cholecystitis, gallstones and others.
5) Strengthening tendons and lowering lipids. The secretion of Yin fluid and the function of bone and muscle would begin to gradually decrease during the Middle Ages. Since it can nourish Yin fluid and lubricate joints, it helps to strengthen tendons and bones, relieve joint pain, and reduce rheumatism. Modern pharmacological research also showed that it can improve stress tolerance, prevent or stop fatigue, increase hypoxia tolerance, promote circulation, dilate blood vessels, and lower blood cholesterol and triglycerides.
6) Lowering blood sugar. It has long been used as the specific herb for diabetes since ancient times, thanks to its ability to nourish yin, clear heat, and moisten dryness. Clinical studies have shown that it cannot only enhance the activity of insulin but also significantly reduce and change blood sugar levels back to normal.
7) Improving eyesight. It was also viewed as one of the best eye tonics in the eyes of ancient physicians because of its yin-nourishing and eyesight-improving properties. Modern pharmacological studies confirmed that it could make a difference in the prevention and treatment of senile cataract and children’s eyesight.
8) Nourishing the skin. Due to dwindling Yin fluid in the body, the aging of skin speeds up in people in middle age. Therefore, the skin begins to turn black and become wrinkled. This is where the dendrobium gets in, since the mucus it contains can moisturize and provide nutrition to the skin.
9) Prolonging life. The “Shen Nong’s Herbal Classic” reviews that it is an effective medicine that can help with weight loss and longevity. Modern pharmacological studies confirmed that it contains many trace elements, which are closely related to human health and longevity. Hence, it has a more comprehensive anti-aging effect compared to other herbs.
1. As a Herbal Tea
Take about 3–5 grams of sliced Dendrobium. Place them in a cup or teapot, then pour in freshly boiled water. Let it steep for 10–15 minutes before drinking. The slices can be re-brewed 2–3 times until the flavor fades. You may also add goji berries, chrysanthemum flowers, American ginseng, or licorice to enhance the tea’s benefits and flavor.
2. In Soup or Stew
For a more nourishing preparation, use 5–10 grams of sliced Dendrobium per serving. Soak the slices in warm water for 10–20 minutes to soften them. Then add them to soups or stews, along with ingredients like chicken, duck, pork ribs, red dates, or Chinese yam. Simmer for 1–2 hours. This method is ideal for boosting energy, moisturizing the body, and supporting digestion.
3. In Porridge or Rice
You can also cook a few slices of Dendrobium together with rice or porridge. This allows the herb to release its mild sweetness into the dish while delivering its restorative properties. It’s a convenient option for daily health maintenance.