Introduction: Also known as rapeseed, cole, hucai, hancai, and tai cai, legend has it that the renowned Tang Dynasty physician Sun Simiao once grew a tumor on his head that caused excruciating pain. Suddenly, he recalled an ancient text documenting rapeseed's use for treating "wind-induced wandering erysipelas and swelling." He immediately applied crushed rapeseed leaves as a poultice, and the swelling and pain subsided quickly. Subsequently, people followed his example.
In China, rapeseed is divided into winter and spring rapeseed regions based on geographical areas. The middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and the Sichuan Basin constitute the winter rapeseed region, accounting for over 80% of the national planting area. The Qinghai Plateau is the spring rapeseed region. When the rapeseed flowers are in bloom, the yellow flowers by the Qinghai Lake amidst the green water are a spectacular sight.
Stir-fried Rapeseed with Mushrooms
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, rapeseed is pungent and cool in nature, and it affects the Liver, Lung, and Spleen meridians. The book "Sui Xi Ju Yin Shi Pu" (Dietary Recommendations for Following the Breath) states that rapeseed is "delicious when cooked, dispels blood stasis and reduces swelling, breaks up accumulations and unblocks the bowels. Its seeds can be pressed for oil, hence its name 'rape-seed'." It is also commonly eaten by people with habitual constipation, heat-toxin scabies, and other conditions, to utilize its blood-dispersing and swelling-reducing effects.
Among all vegetables, rapeseed is a standout source of calcium, containing approximately 140 milligrams per 100 grams. Its rich fiber content can reduce fat absorption, promote gastrointestinal motility, and is beneficial for alleviating constipation and preventing colorectal cancer. Studies have shown that rapeseed also contains phytoestrogens, which can, to a certain extent, inhibit the formation of malignant tumors. Furthermore, eating more rapeseed is also beneficial for oral ulcers and gum bleeding caused by excessive heat in the upper jiao (upper burner). It should be noted that rapeseed should not be eaten with animal liver, cucumber, or carrots, as the components in these foods may destroy the vitamins in rapeseed.
Stir-fried Rapeseed with Wood Ear Mushrooms
Moistening the Bowels and Promoting Defecation Recipe: Suitable for constipation caused by stomach heat and senile habitual constipation. Wash and cut 100g of rapeseed. Wash and slice 50g of rehydrated shiitake mushrooms. Heat vegetable oil until moderately hot (about 60% heat), add scallions and ginger to stir-fry until fragrant, then stir-fry an appropriate amount of minced lean pork. Add the rapeseed and shiitake mushrooms and stir-fry until cooked. Season with salt and a small amount of sesame oil.
Swelling-Reducing and Mass-Dispersing Recipe: Suitable for carbuncles, sores, swelling, pain, and hyperplasia of the mammary glands. Wash 200g of fresh rapeseed, blanch in boiling water, then cut into sections. Shred 100g of kelp, blanch in boiling water, then mix with sesame paste, monosodium glutamate, salt, and minced garlic to make a salad.
Hericium Erinaceus on Rapeseap Hearts