Bone broth is all the trend, but has been a folk remedy and traditional medicine for thousands of years.
Bone broth has been shown to help with
digestive problems
a weak immune system
arthritis
anxiety.
Its immune-boosting properties make it the perfect food to fend off a cold and for recovering from an illness or childbirth.
What makes bone broth so nutritious
Bone broths are not only a delicious base for soups, but they are also a nutrient-rich and easily digested medicine for everyday health. Bones from different animals will have different flavors. The most traditional stock of choice comes from cows, whose bones supply large amounts of the following nutrients:
Vital minerals
Calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, and other trace minerals
Glycine
30% of the protein content in bone broth includes the amino acid glycine which has been shown to
decrease oxidative stress
help in detoxification by encouraging the production of glutathione
reduce inflammation from certain toxic bacteria
protect the stomach from gastric ulcers
encourage the production of stomach acid
Thanks to a high glycine, collagen & gelatin content, bone broth can help to regulate blood sugar & detoxify the liver.
Gelatin & collagen
The bones and cartilage you use to cook the broth will be transformed into gelatin. Gelatin helps the layer of mucous lining the intestinal wall and is hydrophilic, by pulling fluids into the digestive tract.
Low collagen has been associated with conditions such as IBS (inflammatory bowel syndrome), whereas increased collagen is usually associated with better skin health.
The ideal bone broth becomes almost stiff and jelly-like after it cools down.
Health benefits of bone broth for Chinese medicine
In Chinese Medicine, bone broths are used to support the digestive system, strengthen the kidneys, and build the blood.
To strengthen immunity or during recovery of an illness or surgery
To strengthen the bones and support joints and tendons
Best postpartum recovery tonics.
Bones to supplement original essence
Bones are some of the deepest tissues of our body. Bone marrow is stored inside of our bones. This is also where our Jing 精 essence (read) lives. Jing is one of the most fundamental substances for our constitution, healthy aging and reproduction.
Drinking Bone Broth regularly helps your body build a healthy and vital constitution while repairing cellular damage.
Basic Bone Broth Recipe
Bones-from chicken, turkey, fish, beef, pork, lamb. You can use raw bones, cooked bones, with or without skin and meat from a previous meal.
**Use organic, grass-fed meat and bones
Cold Water (enough to cover the bones)
A splash or two of Vinegar or Lemon juice. (Adding an acidic substance helps draw out the nutrients from the bones)
Optional: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Pressure Cooker Method: Make sure the pressure cooker is only 2/3 full, so there is plenty of room for the steam to create the pressure necessary to cook the broth. Secure the lid on the cooker then bring to a boil, turn down the heat and allow the broth to cook. The time depends on the size of the bones. For example, chicken bones should take about 40 minutes but for beef bones, we usually allow 70 minutes.
Slow Cooker Method: Put all the ingredients in a slow cooker, cover and cook on low. Chicken bones should take 8 – 10 hours and we leave beef bones in the cooker for about 24 hours.
You can add any tonic of your choice, adaptogenic herbs, medicinal mushrooms, or even just beautiful turmeric and ginger! You can't go wrong!
Immunity bone broth with Ginseng
The value of ginseng and Silkie chicken are evident in Chinese medicine, as ginseng & silkie chicken soup is often served to special people at special occasions: the elderly with weakened health, a pregnant woman, a postpartum mother serving her confinement, a hard-working student studying for a big exam, or a patient recovering from a surgery.
Benefits of Ginseng (Ren Shen, 人参）
Boost energy
Improve brain function and memory
Strengthen immune system
Replenish Qi and blood deficiency
Strengthen physical weakness, due to prolonged illness, injury and exhaustion
Calm the mind, nerve system, and anxiety
Regulate blood sugar
Support heart health
Ingredients
1 silkie chicken (substitute with white chicken if silkie is not available)
2 medium ginseng roots (they taste pretty bitter)
2 inch ginger, sliced
20 jujubes
2 tbsp goji berries
1 tsp sea salt or to taste
1/2 cup cooking rice wine
water
Hearty winter oxtail bone broth
Coupled with the use of goji berries and codonopsis root, this Chinese herbal healing oxtail soup focuses on toning and strengthening Qi. Whether you are in a process of healing or just looking for a cozy and nourishing meal, it's a perfect recipe for the whole family in cold weather.
Benefits of codonopsis root (Dang Shen)
Codonopsis is an adaptogenic herb which means that it has been shown to help the body adapt to and defend against the effects of environmental stress. Codonopsis is utilized as a gentle way to promote digestion, strengthen immunity, and to relieve symptoms of stress, illness, and fatigue.
Ingredients
1 pound oxtail pre-cut into pieces
3 tbsp raw apple cider vinegar
2 inch ginger
2 Codonopsis root (aka. Dang Shen) cut into 1-inch pieces
3 tbsp goji berries
3 potatoes
1-2 tomatoes
150 g enoki or oyster mushrooms
1 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
1/4 cup cooking rice wine
2 liter filtered water plus more for blanching and rinsing
And you, what's your favorite bonebroth?