Turnip is a root vegetable commonly grown in temperate climates, with a slightly pungent flavor that’s somewhat similar to daikon radish, though softer in texture and less crunchy. It’s incredibly versatile in the kitchen — delicious raw in salads, simmered in miso soup or nimono (simmered dishes), or even lightly pickled. One of the wonderful things about turnip is that the entire vegetable can be enjoyed — from its tender root to its nutrient-rich leaves and even the skin — making it both nourishing and waste-free.

From a Yakuzen perspective, turnip is especially beneficial for people with Qi stagnation or Yin deficiency. It helps guide the stomach Qi downward, which promotes smoother digestion and makes it a gentle remedy for bloating, burping, and indigestion. Compared to daikon radish, which is also known for aiding digestion, turnip is considered more neutral in nature. Daikon is classified as cooling and can sometimes lower body temperature too much, which may not be ideal for people who are sensitive to cold or who already have weaker digestion. In such cases, turnip offers similar digestive support without the same risk of chilling the body.

Turnip leaves, often overlooked, are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, adding extra value to this humble root. In Yakuzen, turnip is seen as a food that not only helps ease digestive discomfort but also gently supports overall balance — making it a smart choice for everyday cooking, especially in cooler seasons.

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Neutral（平）
Channels – Heart (心), Lung (肺), Spleen (脾), Stomach (胃)
Flavor – Pungent (辛), Sweet (甘), Bitter (苦)

How does turnip help you?

1. Send stomach Qi downward and improve your digestion
2. Eliminate dampness

Good for the following symptoms

1. Bloating due to indigestion
2. Burping due to indigestion
3. Constipation
4. Thirst
5. Nausea

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 and also for children. Ask your doctor before you start Yakuzen food therapy.