Looking for a natural, gentle remedy to support prostate health? Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers time-tested approaches that may ease symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), especially when triggered by internal energy deficiency. Todayโs recipe uses a delicately simmered pork tripe soup combined with carefully selected herbs to support your bodyโs qi and improve urinary flow.
How Exactly Does This Home Remedy Gently Help?
This pork tripe herbal soup can support men experiencing mild prostate-related urinary issuesโparticularly those caused by what's known in TCM as โmiddle qi deficiency.โ Common symptoms include frequent urges to urinate, difficulty urinating, dribbling, abdominal heaviness, pressure in the perineum, pale urine, fatigued appearance, and weak speech.
Main ingredients and their functions:
- Pork Tripe (250g): Rich in nutrients, pork tripe is thought to strengthen digestive organs and energy (qi), which in turn supports lower abdominal function.
- Honey-fried Astragalus (12g): Known for its energy-boosting and immune-supporting qualities, astragalus (Huang Qi) must be honey-fried in advance to enhance its tonic effects.
- Honey-fried Cimicifuga (10g): Often processed to reduce irritation, this herb (Sheng Ma) supports the lifting of โsinking qiโ associated with urinary retention and fatigue symptoms.
So Easy! How to Cook the Soup at Home
Step-by-step instructions (takes about 90โ120 minutes):
- Rinse 250g fresh pork tripe thoroughly. Blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes to remove odors.
- Cut into small chunks and place in a clay pot.
- Wrap 12g honey-fried Astragalus and 10g honey-fried Cimicifuga in clean cheesecloth or gauze.
- Add the herbal packet to the pot, cover with enough water (about 1.5โ2 liters).
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 1.5โ2 hours until the tripe is tender.
- Remove herb packet. Drink the broth and eat the tripe.
Recommended intake: 1โ2 times weekly as a gentle support regimen.
Must-know Safety Notes Before You Try It
Although these herbs are generally safe when prepared properly, caution should be taken, especially regarding dosage and ingredient quality. Always use honey-fried (็) versions of Astragalus and Cimicifuga to ensure gentler effects.
Important: If using other herbs such as Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), always remove its core (embryo), and never consume in large amounts or for extended periods due to potential toxicity.
Is It Really Effective? What Research Tells Us
Modern studies have linked Astragalus to improved immune function and decreased inflammation, which may indirectly support prostate health ((PMID: 29947988)).
In TCM theory from the classic Huangdi Neijing, disorders related to weak urination and qi sinking are often managed by boosting the middle burner and spleen qi through herbal tonics and warming foods such as this soup.
Animal studies have indicated that tripe peptides may exert positive stress-regulating effects, potentially supporting urological well-being ((PMID: 31801605)).
Research-backed insights:
- โAstragalus membranaceus improves inflammatory cytokinesโ โ (PMID: 29947988)
- โTripe peptides may help balance stress hormonesโ โ (PMID: 31801605)
- โHuangdi Neijing: Emphasis on qi and urinary functionโ โ (PMID: 7151205)
โก Quick Test + Soup Hack for Fast Relief
If you often feel the urge to urinate but strain with minimal output โ try this soup tonight along with 30 seconds of deep belly breathing before meals.
If your energy feels low and you notice pale urine + poor appetite โ simmer Astragalus in your standard chicken broth for an easy, weekly boost.
For informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) before use.
