Lesser Cold and Greater Cold are the coldest solar terms of the year. As the saying goes, "In the 'Three Nines' and 'Four Nines', one can walk on the ice," which shows how cold it is. After Greater Cold, the temperature begins to rise. Greater Cold is the last solar term of the year, an important time for the transformation of yin and yang, and a turning point marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring. Unlike other solar terms, Greater Cold includes many important festivals, such as the Laba Festival, Little New Year, New Year's Eve, and the Spring Festival.
TCM Health Preservation
The most important health preservation before and after Greater Cold is to keep warm and moisturize. The general characteristics of this season are cold and dry, so keeping warm is essential. Hats, masks, and gloves should be worn completely. Excessive dryness can lower immunity; maintaining moisture can boost immunity, hinder bacterial growth, and prevent infections.
In addition, cardiovascular diseases and joint problems are common during this time. The elderly, those who are susceptible to illness, and people with underlying conditions should be especially careful.
Dietary Therapy
The general dietary principle for this season is to eat warm and soft foods. This not only means the food should be warm in temperature but also its nature should be warming, which can help strengthen the spleen, warm the stomach, and nourish the kidneys. A common saying goes: "To prevent wind and cold during Lesser and Greater Cold, drink Ginseng and Astragalus soup in the morning, and take Qi Ju Di Huang Wan at night." Astragalus and Ginseng have the effect of replenishing qi and strengthening yang; taking them in the morning can protect yang energy and promote its rise. Qi Ju Di Huang Wan can nourish the kidneys and yin, with a consolidating effect.
Foods to Eat Before and After Greater Cold--
Vegetables: Garlic sprouts, yellow chives, coriander, cabbage, white radish, mushrooms
Livestock: Beef, mutton, dog meat
Eggs and Poultry: Silkie chicken, chicken eggs
Aquatic Products: Crucian carp, shrimp
Fruits: Kiwi, pomelo, pear (for diabetics, consume with caution)
Drinks: Black tea, milk, plain water
Representative Medicinal Cuisine
Braised Mutton with White Radish
Mutton has a warming and nourishing effect. When stewed until tender, its nutrients are easily absorbed. White radish can strengthen the spleen, regulate qi, and resolve phlegm. Since people tend to eat more meat and "heaty" foods in winter, white radish can help move qi and clear accumulated heat.
Sautéed Double Mushrooms
Double mushrooms refer to shiitake mushrooms and fresh mushrooms. This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals. As fruit and vegetable consumption is relatively low in winter, eating this dish can boost immunity, and it also has the benefits of strengthening the spleen and warming the kidneys.