Sweet potatoes originated in South America and were brought to Japan from China in the 1600s. Because they are hardy and highly nourishing, they soon became a staple in the Japanese diet. In Yakuzen, sweet potatoes are valued for replenishing Qi, the body’s essential energy that supports overall health and daily strength.

They are considered to have a neutral property, meaning they neither overheat nor overly cool the body, making them gentle and suitable for most constitutions. Sweet potatoes especially support the functions of the spleen and stomach, two organs central to digestion and energy production in Traditional Chinese Medicine. For this reason, they are often recommended for people with weak digestion, low appetite, or fatigue after eating.

Rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes help to moisten the intestines and prevent constipation, while also offering steady energy. However, like many starchy foods, eating too much at once may lead to bloating or excess gas. To balance their effects, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation and, when possible, pair them with Qi-boosting ingredients such as chenpi (dried tangerine peel), which helps regulate digestion and enhance energy circulation.

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Neutral （平）
Channels – Lung (肺), Spleen (脾), Kidney (腎), Liver (肝)
Flavor – Sweet (甘)

How do sweet potatoes help you?

1. Replenish Qi and improve your spleen function
2. Harmonize stomach function
3. Moisten the intestines and relieve constipation

Good for the following symptoms

1. Fatigue due to a weak stomach
2. Indigestion
3. Poor appetite
4. Constipation

Japanese home dishes with sweet potatoes

1. Daigaku Imo (Japanese Candied Sweet potato)
   Benefit - Improve your digestive system / Increase your appetite / Relieve constipation
   Ingredients - Sweet potato, Honey, Black sesame seeds, Soy sauce, and salt

Cautions

It's very important to know about your body conditions before choosing foods.
Do not overeat 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.