Chinese medicine food represents a distinctive culinary heritage of China. Especially, in Henan, food and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) have achieved a harmonious integration, giving rise to a distinctive medicinal food culture. This not only fulfills people's daily dietary needs, but also profoundly reflects the philosophy of harmony between body and nature.

Chinese medicine has a long and respected history in Henan. The province is known for its herbal resources, with the Zhang Zhongjing Museum in Nanyang honoring the legendary physician often referred to as the "Hippocrates of China". Zhang's classic medical text, Treatise on Cold Damage Disorders, laid the foundation for TCM diagnosis and treatment methods that are still used today.

In cities like Bozhou and Xinyang, markets are full of medicinal herbs such as astragalus, rehmannia, ginseng, and goji berries. These herbs are not just used in clinical settings—they're deeply integrated into daily diets. This blending of food and Chinese medicine is a concept known as "medicine-food homology", where ingredients are chosen not only for flavor but also for their health benefits.

Henan cuisine, or Yu cuisine, exemplifies this principle. Hearty and flavorful, it features slow-cooked broths, stews, and grain-based dishes that nourish both body and soul. Lamb stew with pepper, wheat-based noodles, and medicinal soups made with Chinese yam or wolfberry are just a few examples. These dishes are believed to boost energy, warm the body, and promote internal balance, especially during Henan's cold winters. These dishes epitomize the successful synergy between traditional Chinese medicine and culinary traditions.

Tea also plays a key role. Xinyang Maojian, one of China's top green teas, is prized for its delicate taste and purported benefits for digestion and mental clarity.

Henan boasts a diverse array of Chinese medicine food, which holds a prominent place in Henan's culinary traditions. They not only reflect a profound reverence for nature and holistic wellness but also embody the philosophy that health is a lifelong practice nurtured through daily rituals.

Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao