Milk
For Chinese dietary therapy, Milk (牛奶) is a food of Neutral nature and Sweet flavor. Classical Chinese dietetics barely used dairy; the current reading of milk as neutral and moistening is a modern addition to the repertoires.
Traditional energetics
- Nature
- Neutral
- Flavor
- Sweet
- Affinity
- Lung · Stomach
- Direction of Qi
- Gently moistens and descends
- Season
- All year
- Group
- Dairy
How tradition reads it
Classical Chinese dietetics barely used dairy; the current reading of milk as neutral and moistening is a modern addition to the repertoires.
Modern readings study it warmed with oats, rice, or gentle spices; classical Chinese dietetics barely used dairy, so its "pairings" are contemporary adaptations.
In the kitchen
Warmed with oats or rice, in gentle desserts and drinks.
Commonly available; calcium-fortified soy drinks are the usual alternative.
Current nutrition note
A practical source of calcium and protein; lactose intolerance is very prevalent.
Precautions
Cow-milk protein allergen; lactose intolerance is very common in Asian and part of Hispanic populations: lactose-free versions exist.
Health notice. Educational and study content. It describes concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional. Needling, medicinal herbs and invasive techniques must be applied by trained professionals. Safety guide.
