Herbal Information for Organic Chinese Yam Root in Cut Form
What Is Shan Yao, And Why Should Women Use It?
In Chinese folklore, Shan Yao is often touted as a "beauty food," deeply revered not just for its nutritional value but for its purported beauty-enhancing properties. Legend has it that during ancient times, women in the royal palaces would consume Shan Yao regularly to maintain a youthful appearance and radiant skin. This root vegetable is rich in mucilage, a gelatinous substance that aids in moisturizing and soothing the skin, which was believed to be a secret to the flawless porcelain skin of the empresses and concubines.
The lore also suggests that Shan Yao contains essential minerals and vitamins that help balance the body’s Yin energy, which is crucial for maintaining smooth skin and a vibrant complexion. It is said to be particularly beneficial for reducing the appearance of blemishes and wrinkles, thus promoting a more beautiful and youthful look.
Furthermore, Shan Yao is believed to enhance feminine grace and beauty by improving overall health. It supports the stomach and spleen, boosts energy levels, and ensures the proper functioning of the body, which, in turn, enhances one's external appearance. Consuming it as part of a regular diet was thought to contribute not only to physical beauty but also to inner health, reflecting the philosophy that true beauty originates from within.
Here are a few ways it is associated with beauty enhancement:
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Skin Nourishment: Shan Yao is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining healthy skin. Its nourishing properties can help improve skin hydration and elasticity, potentially reducing the appearance of wrinkles and promoting a youthful complexion.
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Hormonal Balance: In TCM, Shan Yao is believed to support kidney health, which is often linked to hormonal balance. Proper hormonal function is crucial for skin health; imbalances can lead to issues such as acne or premature aging.
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Internal Health: Beauty in TCM is often seen as a reflection of internal health. By supporting digestive health and improving nutrient absorption, Shan Yao may contribute to a clearer complexion and overall vitality.
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Detoxification: The antioxidant properties of Shan Yao can aid in detoxifying the skin, helping to combat oxidative stress that contributes to skin issues.
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Weight Management: By boosting energy levels and improving metabolism, Shan Yao may assist in weight management, which can positively impact overall appearance and confidence.
Incorporating Shan Yao into one's diet, whether through consumption in recipes or in the form of supplements, aligns with holistic beauty practices that emphasize the importance of nourishing the body from within to achieve outer radiance.
Product Specifications
Common Name: Chinese Yam Root
Botanical Name: Dioscorea opposita; Radix
Channels/Meridians: Kidney, Lung, Spleen
Other Names: Wild Yam Root
Pin Yin Name: Shan Yao / Huai Shan
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: 1 pound
Form: Cut / Sliced, not uniform pieces.
Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Certified Organic- Geo-Authentic Herbs
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Should not be taken by itself when there is accumulated dampness in the abdomen. May interfere with other medications.
Naturally Occurring Chemical Components: diosgenin, mucilage, choline, starch, sugar, protein, free amino acids, abscisin, vitamin C, amylase,
Summary of Health Benefits Of Shan Yao
- Tonify Spleen
- Healthy Glucose Support when used with diet and exercise
- Supports Normal Breathing
- Replenishes Qi
- Aids in Digestion
Product Properties: Sweet, Neutral
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly.
Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by our in-house lab and independent third party lab. Our in-house lab is equipped with instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatography, moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, etc.
In addition, the following additional tests are performed:
- Micro bacteria
- Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen).
- Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
Traditional Chinese Herbs encompasses the use of different parts of plants, such as the leaves, roots, stems, flowers, and seeds. These plant parts are often used as a tea, decoctions, extracts, made into capsules or even a footbath. These bulk herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony and balance.
We encourage you to educate yourself on herbs and supplements, by researching reputable sites, and books. Having an open discussion with your physician on what will be most beneficial for your health issues. And lastly discussing interaction of herbs and pharmaceuticals with your pharmacist or physician.
References:
Chinese Materia Medica
Jade Remedies by Peter Holmes.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4331973/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16756078/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3866735/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4632431/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24689699/
