The harmonious combination of the sweet and nutty flavor of black beans and the warm spiciness of ginger not only creates a delicious drink but also offers many great benefits, especially in protecting the health of the musculoskeletal system.
1. Why does black bean and ginger water help relieve joint pain?
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the physiology and pathology of the musculoskeletal system are closely related to the kidneys. "The kidneys govern the bones and marrow," and when kidney energy is abundant, the bones are strong and movement is flexible. Conversely, when the kidneys are deficient or the body is invaded by wind, cold, and dampness, it leads to blockage of the meridians, stagnation of qi and blood, causing aches, numbness, and difficulty in movement.
Black beans have a sweet taste and a neutral nature, entering the kidney meridian. Their main functions are to nourish the kidneys, benefit the essence, and strengthen tendons and bones; helping to replenish blood and strengthen tendons and bones from the root. At the same time, black beans also have the effect of eliminating dampness, helping to expel elements that cause severe numbness and dull pain from the body.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has a spicy taste and warm nature, acting on the Lung, Spleen, and Stomach meridians. With its warming properties, ginger helps dispel cold, warm the body, and promote blood circulation; it helps eliminate stagnant cold in the joints, promotes blood flow, and quickly reduces stiffness and pain, especially effective for pain that intensifies in cold weather or after contact with cold water.
The combination of black beans and ginger creates a remedy that both replenishes vital energy from the kidneys (thanks to the black beans) and expels harmful energies such as wind, cold, and dampness (thanks to the ginger), thereby nourishing and improving the function of the joints, reducing pain.
Black bean and ginger water is beneficial for strengthening the kidneys and bones.
Modern science has demonstrated several specific mechanisms by which black bean water and ginger affect the musculoskeletal system:
Ginger's powerful anti-inflammatory properties: The main components responsible for ginger's medicinal properties are pungent compounds such as gingerol and shogaol. These compounds inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators in the body, such as prostaglandins and cytokines. This minimizes inflammation in the joints, effectively reducing swelling, heat, redness, and pain.
Black beans provide essential micronutrients for bones: These include manganese, essential for cartilage and bone formation; magnesium and zinc, involved in bone structure and mineralization, helping to strengthen bones; and iron and copper, necessary for the production of collagen, the main protein component of joint cartilage, tendons, and ligaments.
Black bean and ginger water are rich in antioxidants: Both black beans (containing anthocyanins and flavonoids) and ginger are rich in antioxidants. These substances help neutralize free radicals, which cause cell damage and accelerate joint degeneration.
Weight management support: Black beans are rich in fiber and plant-based protein, creating a feeling of fullness and helping to effectively control weight. Maintaining a healthy weight significantly reduces pressure on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips, preventing and slowing the progression of osteoarthritis.
2. How to cook black bean and ginger tea
- Use 50-100g of green-hearted black beans, roast them over low heat until fragrant.
- Wash one fresh ginger root (about 20g), then slice or crush it.
- Put both ingredients into a pot with 1.5-2 liters of water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Filter the water and drink it throughout the day; it's best to drink it while it's still warm.
3. Important notes when using
Do not overuse: Drink only 2-3 times a week, and do not completely replace plain water. Drinking too much can cause internal heat (due to ginger) or bloating (due to beans).
Caution is advised for individuals with a hot constitution (excessive internal heat), frequent hot flashes, constipation; those with acute gastric ulcers; and those with low blood pressure. Consult a doctor before use.
Not a substitute for medication: This is a health-supporting and preventative beverage, not a substitute for medical treatment prescribed by a doctor.