Soups
Lotus Seed, Lily Bulb, Poria and Yu Zhu Soup
Traditionally calms the mind and supports restful sleep
Why people make this soup
With the fast pace and pressure of big-city life, sleeping badly and dreaming a lot are among the most common complaints Bro Niu hears. Over time these can wear a person down. Poor sleep, vivid dreams and trouble falling asleep are just some of the early signs; if left unattended they can drag on energy and focus. So when restless, dream-filled sleep becomes a habit, it is worth tending to. This lotus seed, lily bulb, poria and yu zhu soup is traditionally taken to support better sleep.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable for those who sleep lightly, dream a lot, or feel run-down from poor rest
- A clear, mild soup gentle enough for all ages, made savory or sweet to taste
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Lotus seeds (lian zi): Traditionally associated with calming the heart and supporting the spleen.
- Lily bulb (bai he): Traditionally associated with calming the mind and easing restlessness.
- Poria (fu ling): Traditionally regarded as calming the mind and draining damp.
- Yu zhu (Solomon’s seal): Traditionally regarded as nourishing yin and moistening dryness.
Ingredients (3 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh lotus seeds | ~76 g | Or ~38 g dried; soaked and rinsed |
| Lily bulb | ~38 g | Soaked and rinsed |
| Poria | ~19 g | Soaked and rinsed |
| Yu zhu (Solomon’s seal) | ~19 g | Soaked and rinsed |
Method
- Soak and rinse all the ingredients.
- Boil in 7 bowls of water for 45 minutes, reducing to 3 bowls. Serve.
Bro Niu’s tips
This soup is clear and fragrant, suitable for young and old, and works both savory and sweet. For a savory version add lean pork; for a sweet version add rock sugar.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (Yanice): If I have a cough, a nosebleed and trouble falling asleep at night, can I make this soup? Bro Niu: Yes, you can make this soup; if you have a nosebleed, add 1 bundle of fresh imperata root (mao gen) for a better effect.
- Q (Littlegrass): What is the difference between poria pieces and poria rolls? Which should I use in a soy-milk machine with other ingredients? Bro Niu: Poria pieces and poria rolls have the same effect; if you are using a soy-milk machine, the rolls are a bit better.
Published March 10, 2025 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
