Potatoes are one of the most beloved and versatile vegetables around the world, with countless ways to cook and enjoy them. But beyond comfort food, potatoes offer gentle healing benefits—especially when viewed through the lens of Yakuzen.

In Yakuzen, potatoes are especially connected to spleen and stomach health. They are known as Qi-nourishing vegetables, meaning they help replenish energy and support your body when you're feeling tired or run-down. Potatoes also help strengthen the spleen, which plays a central role in digestion and nutrient absorption in TCM. When the spleen is weak, symptoms like fatigue, poor appetite, nausea, or bloating can appear.

Potatoes are often recommended for those recovering from digestive weakness, especially when you're feeling worn out from overwork, stress, or irregular eating habits.

However, it’s worth noting that some people may feel bloated after eating a large amount of potatoes in one sitting. To balance this effect, try combining potatoes with onions—a food known to promote Qi flow and gently support digestion. However, moderation is always key!

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Neutral（平）
Channels – Spleen (脾), Stomach (胃), Large intestine (大腸)
Flavor – Sweet (甘)

How do potatoes help you?

1. Nourish Qi
2. Strengthen your spleen and stomach

Good for the following symptoms

1. Poor appetite
2. Upper stomach pain
3. Fatigue caused by a weak spleen
4. Nausea
5. Chronic constipation
6. Excessive sweating

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.