Swallows Nest, Yan Wo 燕窝

Yan Wo (TCM)
Picture Picture
Swallows Nest; right is ‘Red Blood Birds Next’, the most expensive (Chengdu Herb Market, 2015)


Zoological name:
White-nest Swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus);
Black-nest Swiftlet (Aerodramus maximus


Parts used:


Nest

Temperature & Taste:


Neutral, Sweet

Constituents:


The nest contains mucopolysaccharides, and good levels of calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium as well as traces elements.

Uses:


1. Benefits Spleen, Enriches Qi:
-Vomiting, Stomachache
-Deficiency, Malnutrition
-aids recovery from chronic illness and weakness

2. Nourishes Yin, Clears Phlegm, Stops Cough:
-Cough, Chronic Bronchitis

3. Nourishes Kidneys Yin:
-Night-sweats
-frequent Urination, nocturnal Urination
-increases Immunity
-benefits Complexion, promotes Youthfulness
-recommended as a good tonic for the young and old


Dose:


One piece of nest can be decocted in a double boiler, or else infused in a tea. It is also added to soups.

Main Combinations:


1. Often cooked into porridge with Rice

Cautions:


Generally safe, it is eaten as a tonic food.
Some people are allergic

Main Preparations used: