Bell pepper originated in South America and was introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus. While commonly known for its vibrant color and sweet, crisp flavor, bell pepper also offers gentle healing properties—especially from a Yakuzen perspective.

In Yakuzen (Japan’s approach to Traditional Chinese Medicine), bell pepper is classified as a warm-natured food. This means it helps warm the internal organs, promote Qi flow, and dispel cold from the body. Cold sensitivity, which is often linked to poor circulation and digestive weakness, can lead to symptoms such as chronic fatigue, stomach discomfort, and body pain that worsens in cold weather.

Bell pepper is believed to help prevent or relieve blood stasis caused by cold exposure. Blood stasis, in TCM terms, refers to poor blood circulation that may result in dull pain, cold extremities, or a heavy sensation in the body. Supporting Qi and blood flow is key to keeping the body warm, nourished, and balanced.

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Warm (温)
Channels – Heart (心), Spleen (脾)
Flavor – Pungent (辛)

How does bell pepper help you?

1. Warm up your spleen and stomach and dispel cold.
2. Improve Qi flow and blood circulation.
3. Improve your appetite and digestion.

Good for the following symptoms

1. Pains caused by sensitivity to cold
2. Poor appetite
3. Indigestion

Japanese home dishes with bell pepper

1. Piiman No Nikuzume (Stuffed bell pepper)
   Benefits - Nourish Qi / Improve vital energy flow and blood circulation / Increase appetite / Relieve a stiff back / Relieve stress

Ingredients
Bell pepper, chicken mince, onion, curry powder, salt, black pepper

If you want to know more about today's dish, please send me a message.

Cautions

It's very important to know about your body conditions before choosing foods.
Do not eat too much of particular foods at once.
Do not eat the foods you are allergic to.
There are foods to avoid if you are pregnant / have a disease. Ask your doctor before you start Yakuzen food therapy.