Leek is extremely common, with a bright green color and a spicy taste. The history of consuming leeks in China is long and deep. Du Fu once wrote in a poem, "Cutting spring leeks in the night rain, cooking fragrant rice." This depicts the warm scene of eating home-cooked meals with old friends. At the same time, the nutritional benefits of leeks should not be ignored. They can warm the kidneys, nourish the liver and stomach, and promote bowel movement. However, most people do not know much about leek seeds.
As the name implies, leek seeds are the seeds of leeks. When leeks are fully mature, black granular seeds appear. They can be dried and rubbed to obtain leek seeds. It is recorded that leek seeds appeared in the medical book "Ming Yi Bie Lu" during the late Han Dynasty. The book highly praises its efficacy. So, what are the benefits of leek seeds?
Replenish the Kidneys
Leek seeds have a warm nature and can replenish the kidneys, boost yang energy, and strengthen essence. When men experience symptoms such as impotence, premature ejaculation, and frequent urination, leek seeds can have a good regulating effect.
Activate Blood Circulation
Leek seeds have a spicy taste. When ingested, they can promote blood circulation, disperse blood stasis, and relieve conditions caused by bruises or intestinal diseases such as colitis.
Strengthen the Stomach
Leek seeds contain volatile oils and sulfides, which give off a special spicy aroma. When ingested, they can increase appetite and improve digestion.
Promote Bowel Movement
Leeks are known for their ability to moisten the intestines and promote bowel movement, hence the nickname "intestinal grass". Leek seeds are no exception. They are rich in dietary fiber, which can help stimulate gastrointestinal peristalsis and facilitate timely excretion of waste.
After learning about these benefits, many people may wonder how to consume these black leek seeds. Here are a few common ways to eat them.
1. Soaking in Water
This is a common method. Just take a suitable amount of dried leek seeds and steep them in hot water. Drink the water directly. Many people also like to soak leek seeds in alcohol. Just put roasted leek seeds into white wine, seal it for a few days, and then consume it.
2. Making Porridge
Making porridge is also a common way to eat leek seeds. Put washed leek seeds and glutinous rice in a pot, add an appropriate amount of water, and cook until the porridge becomes thick. You can also add ingredients such as wolfberries, Chinese yam, and Chinese dodder to the porridge for better nourishing effects.
3. Stir-Frying Leek Seeds
Take a suitable amount of clean leek seeds, stir-fry them over low heat until fragrant, and then remove them from the heat. They can be eaten directly or ground into powder for consumption.
These are the main benefits and common ways to consume leek seeds. Now is the time when leek seeds are about to mature, so don't miss out on this inexpensive nourishing food.
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