In the world of health and wellness, an ancient concept is gaining renewed attention: Medicine and Food Homology (MFH). Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), MFH posits that the boundary between food and medicine is not rigid but fluid, suggesting that certain foods can have medicinal properties[1]. This idea is encapsulated in the saying, "药食同源", meaning medicine and food having the same origins. This highlights the potential of dietary choices to promote health and treat illness.
The Concept of MFH
MFH refers to the overlapping relationship between food and medicine, where the use of TCM as a food product or a medicine is largely dependent on its dosage. TCM herbs with higher toxicity are consumed in smaller amounts, while those with lower toxicity can be consumed in larger quantities as food. This concept underscores the principle that many substances can be both food and medicine, depending on how they are used.
For example, walnuts are a common food ingredient, often used in desserts and snacks. However, in TCM, walnuts are also valued for their medicinal properties, particularly their ability to enhance bowel movement. This dual role exemplifies the concept of MFH, where a single substance can provide both nutritional and therapeutic benefits.
The Chinese Ministry of Health has embraced this concept, releasing a list of materials that can be "used as both food and drugs." This list is continually expanding as research progresses, currently recognizing over 80 types of herbs as MFH materials[2]. These herbs are typically low in toxicity and can be safely integrated into daily diets.
TCM medical food therapy advocates for maintaining a well-balanced diet tailored to an individual's age, gender, and constitution. This aligns closely with modern nutritional principles, which emphasize the importance of a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to support optimal bodily function. Similarly, TCM promotes a diet rich in grains, fruits, vegetables, and proteins to maintain the body's health and balance.
However, there are differences between TCM and food. Factors such as the purpose of consumption, mode of administration, duration to onset of effects, and visibility of side effects distinguish TCM from food. While TCM in medicinal form can have potent effects in small doses for acute conditions, its use as medicinal food offers slower, longer-lasting benefits suitable for managing chronic disorders.[3]
The Principles of MFH
Both medicine and food can be classified using these categories:
Nature and Flavor: In TCM, both herbs and foods can be categorized by their nature (hot, warm, neutral, cool, cold) and flavor (sour, bitter, sweet, pungent, salty). Each category affects the body differently. For example, warming foods like Ginger (姜) and Cinnamon (桂皮) can invigorate the body and dispel cold, while cooling foods like Cucumber (黄瓜) and Mint (薄荷) can reduce heat and inflammation.
Organ Targeting: Foods and herbs are believed to have affinities for specific organs. For instance, Black Beans (黑豆) are thought to benefit the kidneys, while Goji Berries (枸杞子) are known to support liver function and improve vision.
The Benefits and Applications of MFH
Incorporating MFH principles into daily life offers numerous health benefits:
Preventive Health: TCM often emphasizes the importance of preventing illnesses. MFH allows individuals to proactively nurture their health and prevent illness by aligning their diet with the body's natural balance. For instance, incorporating warming foods like Ginger (姜), Garlic (大蒜), and Cinnamon (桂皮) into the diet during colder seasons can help invigorate the body's Yang energy, strengthen the immune system, and ward off colds and flu.
Overall Well-being: TCM emphasizes the importance of harmonizing the body's internal balance for overall well-being. By incorporating a variety of foods with different properties, individuals can support the body's Yin-Yang equilibrium. For example, including nourishing foods like Chinese yam (山药), lotus seeds (莲子), and goji berries (枸杞子) in the diet helps nourish the Yin aspect of the body, promoting moisture, calmness, and vitality.
Long-term Management: By adhering to TCM dietary principles and incorporating medicinal foods into their daily regimen, individuals can effectively manage chronic conditions.[4] For instance, consuming foods with blood-nourishing properties such as Red dates (红枣), Black sesame seeds (黑芝麻), and Chinese Angelica Root (当归) can help replenish Qi and blood deficiencies commonly associated with conditions like anemia and fatigue. Individuals with health conditions caused by poor gut health can also consume more foods with spleen-nourishing properties such as Astragalus (黄芪) and Chinese Hawthorn (山楂). Individuals can cooperate with TCM Physicians to design a diet incorporating MFH to help manage their conditions.
The Future of MFH
The concept of MFH is not just a relic of the past; it is increasingly being validated by modern science. Research is uncovering the biochemical mechanisms behind the health benefits of many traditional MFH foods, bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary health practices. This convergence opens up exciting possibilities for developing new functional foods and supplements that harness the therapeutic potential of natural ingredients.
Advancements in food science and technology are enabling the creation of innovative MFH products that are both effective and convenient. Techniques such as data science and in silico approaches can streamline the discovery and optimization of new MFH materials, enhancing their therapeutic applications.
Conclusion
Medicine and Food Homology offers a holistic approach to health that emphasizes the therapeutic potential of everyday foods. By understanding and applying the principles of MFH, we can make dietary choices that not only nourish our bodies but also support our overall well-being and help prevent and manage illness.
As we continue to explore and validate the connections between food and medicine, the future holds great promise for MFH. This ancient wisdom, combined with modern scientific insights, has the potential to transform our approach to nutrition and health, making wellness accessible, natural, and sustainable for everyone. Embracing MFH means recognizing the power of nature’s bounty and the profound impact it can have on our health and lives.
References:
Liu C.X. Understanding “medicine and food homology”, developing utilization in medicine functions. Chinese Herbal Medicines. 2018;10(4):337–338.
Hou Y, Jiang J-G. Origin and concept of medicine food homology and its application in modern functional foods. Food Funct (2013) 4(12):1727–41.doi: 10.1039/C3FO60295H
Ng CYJ, Bun HH, Zhao Y and Zhong LLD (2023) TCM “medicine and food homology” in the management of post COVID disorders. Front. Immunol. 14:1234307.doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1234307
Chen J. Essential role of medicine and food homology in health and wellness. Chin Herb Med. 2023 May 25;15(3):347-348. doi: 10.1016/j.chmed.2023.05.001. PMID: 37538868; PMCID: PMC10394323.
Author: Chen Hou En
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