Tu Ren Shen, also known as fake ginseng, is named because its roots resemble ginseng. Tu Ren Shen is not only a medicinal supplement but also widely used as a health vegetable in the culinary world.
In history, its roots were harvested for medicinal use. The roots are used as a nourishing and strengthening medicine, tonifying the middle and benefiting qi, moistening the lungs and generating fluids. The leaves are used to reduce swelling and detoxify, treating boils and abscesses. In recent years, the thick and tender stems and leaves have been harvested and consumed as vegetables, gaining popularity among consumers.
It is native to tropical America and over time, it has spread worldwide. Its distribution range is particularly wide, especially in areas with nutrient-rich soil.
It is cultivated or wild in some courtyards in the central and southern parts of China, as well as in Taiwan. However, it is unlikely to be found in urban flower beds, as those environments have been influenced by human activities.
Tu Ren Shen is distributed in the slightly southern regions of China because it prefers warm and humid environments, tolerating high temperatures and humidity but being very afraid of cold environments.
Hence, it is not suitable for growth in cold northern regions. It also has high requirements for soil, requiring it to be rich in minerals and loose and well-drained.
Tu Ren Shen was originally an ornamental plant with thick and tender stems and leaves, which are green and contain high potassium and low sodium. Every 100 grams of fresh leaves contain 6.2 micrograms of selenium, making it a rare health vegetable. It can be used to make soup or stir-fried dishes and can also be mixed with chicken, fish, or meat for soup and vegetable dishes.
It has a taste similar to wood ear vegetables, with a crisp and refreshing texture and a fragrant taste. It has the effects of tonifying the middle, benefiting qi, moistening the lungs, generating fluids, and promoting lactation. Consuming it can enhance the body's constitution and prevent and treat influenza, fatigue, and seasickness. Its fleshy roots can also be eaten and have nourishing and strengthening effects.
Tu Ren Shen's leaves are green throughout the year, and around June each year, it blooms beautiful flowers. Its stems and leaves can also be used and have a good taste. We can also use it to make soup, so that the body can absorb the various nutrients it contains, providing great benefits to the body.
