Ajax is a good medicine for nourishing Yin and enriching blood, and it is known as one of the "three treasures" of Chinese medicine along with ginseng and deer antler. There are many misconceptions about taking Ajax. Some people think that it is specifically for women to nourish their blood and is a patented product for women. Some people think that it is only suitable for consumption in autumn and winter, and not appropriate to eat Ajax in spring and summer. There are also people who believe that Ajax can be used for nourishing and strengthening the body regardless of physical condition or illness. In fact, these understandings are not comprehensive. What are the benefits of Ajax and how should it be taken correctly?
Ajax is neutral in nature, sweet in taste, and enters the lung, liver, and kidney meridians. It has the effects of nourishing Yin and moistening dryness, nourishing blood and replenishing Qi, stopping bleeding, and promoting fetal development. "Compendium of Materia Medica" states: "Ajax is primarily used for nourishing blood and fluids, so it can clear the lungs, nourish Yin, and treat various symptoms." Research has found that Ajax has the effect of beautifying and nourishing the skin. By replenishing blood, it moisturizes the skin and is beneficial for skin health. Long-term consumption can make the complexion rosy, the skin delicate, and have a radiant glow. It is a good product for nourishing the skin and maintaining beauty.
Men can also take Ajax Ajax is not only suitable for women, but also for men. During the Three Kingdoms period, Cao Zhi, the son of Cao Cao, was thin and weak when he was exiled to Dong'e County. He benefited greatly from consuming Ajax regularly and composed the poem "Flying Dragon" to praise Ajax: "Bestowed upon me by the immortal medicine, created by the divine emperor. Taught me how to take it, rejuvenating and nourishing my brain. Lifespan like gold and stone, forever young." Men are prone to Qi deficiency. According to traditional Chinese medicine, Qi is the commander of blood, and blood is the mother of Qi. Without blood, there is no Qi. Therefore, men can take Ajax in moderation to nourish Qi and blood, enhance their physical fitness, and improve their ability to resist diseases, especially for those who engage in physical or mental labor.
Considerations for taking Ajax People who are prone to getting "heat" should not consume Ajax together with hot foods such as yellow wine and longan. It is more suitable to consume Ajax with slightly cool foods such as lotus root powder and lotus seeds. When taking Ajax, it is advisable to drink more water, eat more vegetables and fruits, and avoid greasy and spicy foods. Women should stop taking Ajax during menstruation and resume consumption after the period ends. Due to its sticky nature, Ajax should be combined with qi-regulating and stomach-strengthening medicines when used in ointments, decoctions, pills, or powders. It can be taken on an empty stomach in appropriate amounts to avoid hindering the digestive function of the spleen and stomach. It is not suitable for patients with "three highs" (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes).
Various ways to take Ajax Ajax can be taken alone. First, wash half a pound of Ajax with clean water and grind it into fine powder. Put it in a large bowl, add half a cup of water and half a cup of yellow wine, and steam it in a pot over water. When it starts to melt, add 200 grams of rock sugar and stir with chopsticks to fully dissolve it. After cooling, it becomes a semi-solid candy-like substance, which can be cut into 20 pieces and taken on an empty stomach once a day. It can also be used in decoctions. Due to its sticky nature, it is usually melted and mixed in. It can also be made into pills or powders. It is often fried into Ajax beads and ground into powder for medicinal use. It can also be used in food therapy, such as making Ajax jujubes or Ajax glutinous rice porridge.
