Zucchini

Zucchini plant on the ground.

Article Title
The Health Benefits of Zucchini in TCM and Yakuzen Cooking

Zucchini

Japanese
Zucchini (ズッキーニ)

Zucchini is enjoyed in countless recipes around the world, from grilled dishes and stir-fries to soups and salads, showing just how popular and versatile this summer vegetable is. Beyond its culinary appeal, zucchini holds a special place in Yakuzen, where it is valued for its cooling and hydrating properties.

In Yakuzen, zucchini helps clear excess internal heat and promotes the production of body fluids, which can ease thirst, soothe restlessness, and relieve the stress caused by hot weather. It also supports healthy urination and reduces water retention, making it helpful for conditions like bloating and edema.

Another unique benefit of zucchini is its ability to moisten dryness in the lungs, which not only helps with dry coughs but also supports radiant skin. In Yakuzen, lung health is closely tied to skin health, so nourishing the lungs often leads to clearer, healthier-looking skin. With its gentle, sweet flavor and light texture, zucchini is an easy ingredient to incorporate into summer meals, offering both taste and wellness support.

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Cold(寒)
Channels – Lung (肺), Stomach (胃), Kidney (腎)
Flavor – Sweet (甘)

How does zucchini help you?

  1. Clear excessive heat in your body
  2. Produce body fluid
  3. Moisten lung dryness and quench thirst
  4. Improve urine flow

Good for the following symptoms

  1. Stress caused by heat
  2. Thirst
  3. Dry cough
  4. Pimples/boils caused by heat
  5. Edema
  6. Bloating stomach

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.