Congees
Shan Shen Zhou
Shan Shen Zhou (Hawthorn and Medicated Leaven Porridge) is a classic medicinal porridge for relieving food stagnation. It combines the digestive power of hawthorn with the spleen-strengthening effect of medicated leaven to effectively break down grease and promote digestion. The porridge has a sweet and sour taste, making it a mild and soothing remedy after a heavy meal or during indigestion.
Main Ingredients
- Hawthorn (Shan Zha) 60g
- Medicated Leaven (Shen Qu) 20g
- Japonica Rice (Jing Mi) 40g
- Brown Sugar 10g
- Water as needed
Steps
Wrap the hawthorn and medicated leaven in a clean piece of cheesecloth and tie it securely.
Place the bundle in a pot with an appropriate amount of water and simmer for about 30 minutes.
Remove and discard the herbal bundle. Add the washed japonica rice to the remaining liquid and cook until the rice is fully bloomed and the porridge thickens.
Stir in the brown sugar until it is completely dissolved. Serve warm
TCM Notes
Hawthorn: Rich in crataegic acid, vitamin C, and flavonoids, it promotes gastric juice secretion and increases digestive enzymes, aiding in the digestion of fats and meat. Medicated Leaven: A fermented product containing yeast and enzymes like amylase, which helps harmonize the stomach and relieve food stagnation. Japonica Rice & Brown Sugar: Rice tonifies the middle burner and supplements qi, while brown sugar warms the middle and nourishes blood, harmonizing the overall formula.
Suitable for：Individuals with indigestion, food stagnation, and abdominal distension. Patients with chronic enteritis presenting with poor appetite and abdominal fullness.
Not suitable for：Individuals with excessive stomach acid: Hawthorn may stimulate acid secretion and worsen symptoms. Those with Spleen-Stomach deficiency without stagnation: Long-term use may consume vital qi. Pregnant women: Hawthorn may stimulate uterine contractions and should be used with caution.
