Lily bulbs are conventionally used in Chinese cooking as a flavor enhancer, predominantly in vegetarian dishes, but also in many stews and soups that we are familiar with. They are very important ingredient in Buddha’s Delight, Beijing style noodle sauce and often fried with asparagus, celery and more. It is also used in various Chinese desserts.

Lily bulbs has a sweet-dry aftertaste and is cold in nature. It has therapeutic effects toward the Heart and Lungs. According to the ‘Five Phases’ theory in Chinese Medicine, herbs with sweet-dry aftertaste can help to slow down acute stressors and calm the body. Its cold nature can help reduce the excess heat in the body.

Lily bulbs can nourish the lungs and is good for people with yin deficiency. Its therapeutic effects are especially apparent on those with lungs-yin deficiency, and often experiences dry cough, with little or no phlegm, and hoarseness in the throat.

Lily bulbs can calm the heart and mind. It is beneficial to people that has bad sleep quality and frequent insomnia.

Lily bulbs can also treat palpitation and night sweat, which are often a reflection of yin deficiency.

Lilies are good source of starch and protein. Lily bulbs are said to have calcium, iron, phosphorus, folate, potassium and vitamins B1, B2 and C.

However, those with wind-cold syndrome or persistent diarrehea should use Lily bulb with caution, or under the supervision of a certified Chinese Medicine Practitioner, as it might be too cold in nature.

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