Introduction: Also known as rapeseed, cole, winter vegetable, or stem vegetable, rapeseed is said to have been used by the renowned Tang dynasty physician Sun Simiao. When a growth on his head caused him excruciating pain, he recalled an ancient text stating that rapeseed leaves could treat "wind-induced red swellings." He immediately applied crushed rapeseed leaves to the area, and the swelling and pain subsided quickly. Subsequent generations have since followed this practice.
In China, rapeseed is divided into winter and spring varieties based on geographical regions. The middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River and the Sichuan Basin constitute the winter rapeseed area, accounting for over 80% of the national planting area. The Qinghai Plateau is the spring rapeseed area, and when the rapeseed flowers bloom, the yellow blossoms by the Qinghai Lake create a spectacular sight against the blue water.
Mushroom and Rapeseed
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" notes 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 the name rapeseed." In folk medicine, it is commonly eaten to address habitual constipation, heat-toxicity scabies, and other conditions, leveraging its blood-dispersing and swelling-reducing properties.
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 intestinal peristalsis, and is beneficial for alleviating constipation and preventing colorectal cancer. Studies have also found that rapeseed contains phytoestrogens, which can, to a certain extent, inhibit the formation of malignant tumors. Furthermore, consuming more rapeseed is also considered 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.
Shiitake Mushroom Stir-fried with Rapeseed
Remedy for Bowel Regularity: Suitable for constipation caused by intestinal heat and habitual constipation in the elderly. Wash and cut 100g of rapeseed. Wash and slice 50g of shiitake mushrooms. Heat vegetable oil until hot, sauté scallions and ginger, then stir-fry an appropriate amount of minced lean pork. Add the rapeseed and mushrooms and cook until done. Season with salt and a small amount of sesame oil.
Remedy for Reducing Swelling and Dispersing Accumulations: Suitable for boils, carbuncles, swelling, pain, and breast hyperplasia. Wash 200g of fresh rapeseed, blanch in boiling water, then cut into sections. Shred 100g of seaweed, blanch in boiling water. Mix with sesame paste, MSG, salt, and minced garlic for a cold salad.
Hericium Mushroom Braised with Rapeseap Hearts