08/10/2021
In virtually every traditional system of medicine including Traditional Chinese Medicine, Kampo, Unani-tibb, Ayurveda, Tibetan medicine, etc., there are two important components that help separate it from a simple collection of folk remedies. The two foundations of traditional medical practice are a system of constitutional energetics (hot, cold, damp, dry, excess, deficient, etc.) and a method of classifying herbs as to their energetic effect on the body. In most systems the taste of the herb is the most effective and easiest way to accomplish this. This system also helps to prevent exacerbation of illness due to incorrect prescribing and is especially useful when used along with systems of practice such as western herbal medicine/phytotherapy which do not have an energetic basis.
In the previous months, we’ve explored bitter, sour, astringent, pungent, spicy, sweet and acrid. The next taste we will explore is true salt. In Western medicine, these herbs are condiments; useful in small amounts as mineral sources. In traditional Chinese medicine, these herbs tonify the Chinese kidney and bladder; soften hardnesses; and strengthen teeth, bones, hair, and nails.
In excess, salt (sodium chloride, salty condiments, perhaps Glasswort) can damage the kidneys and contribute to hypertension and autoimmune disease.
True salt herbs include Orach, Glasswort, most sea vegetables like Kelp, Dulse, and Bladderwrack.
This blog is intended as an informational guide. The remedies, approaches and techniques described herein are meant to supplement, and not be a substitute for professional medical care or treatment. They should not be used to treat a serious ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health care professional. Image: Steve Lonhart / NOAA MBNMS. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode.
