Walnut kernels, also known as Hu Tao Rou (胡桃肉), are one of the most nutrient-rich nuts. But what you might not know is that they are also used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)!
Table of Contents
- The Medicinal Properties of Walnut Kernels
- Health Benefits & Uses
- Precautions & Contraindications
- Special Usage Tips
1. The Medicinal Properties of Walnut Kernels
📖 Nature & Flavor:
✔️ Sweet in taste, warm in nature
✔️ Meridians Entered: Kidney, Lung, and Large Intestine
👉 Key Functions:
- Tonifies the kidneys – Helps with lower back pain, frequent urination, and reproductive health
- Warms the lungs – Treats chronic cough and shortness of breath
- Moistens the intestines – Relieves constipation caused by dryness
Walnut kernels are not only a nutritious snack but also a natural remedy for lung and kidney deficiencies in TCM.
2. Health Benefits & Uses
✔️ Supports Kidney & Lung Health – Used for chronic cough, asthma, and fatigue
✔️ Alleviates Lower Back Pain – Helps with kidney yang deficiency, weakness, and soreness
✔️ Improves Digestion – Effective for constipation caused by dryness
✔️ Promotes Wound Healing – Used externally to reduce swelling and detoxify wounds
💡 Surprising Uses of Walnuts in Medicine:
- Fried walnut kernels – Can help treat urinary stones
- Walnut paste (ground into a paste) – Can be applied externally to reduce skin hardening after injections
3. Precautions & Contraindications
⚠️ Who Should Avoid Walnuts?
✔️ People with excess heat – Those with yin deficiency, excessive internal heat, or phlegm-heat cough
✔️ Individuals with digestive issues – If you have diarrhea or damp-heat in the stomach, walnuts may worsen symptoms
✔️ Patients taking iron supplements – Tannins in walnuts can bind with iron supplements, reducing their absorption and effectiveness
4. Special Usage Tips
💡 How to Use Walnuts Effectively:
✔️ For chronic cough & asthma – Eat walnuts with the skin on
✔️ For constipation relief – Remove the skin before consuming
✔️ For treating kidney stones – Deep-fry walnuts until crispy and consume them as a remedy
✔️ For skin hardening after injections – Apply walnut paste directly to the affected area
Conclusion
Walnuts are more than just a healthy snack—they are a powerful herbal remedy in traditional Chinese medicine! Whether you are looking to nourish your kidneys, strengthen your lungs, or improve digestion, walnuts can be a great natural choice.
🌰 But remember! Not everyone should consume walnuts freely. If you have heat-related conditions or digestive issues, eat them in moderation or consult a TCM practitioner.