Shengma and Black Sesame Large Intestine Soup: A TCM Gut Health Recipe

Cimicifuga and Black Sesame Large Intestine Soup

Introduction to Medicinal Diet

Shengma (Cimicifuga foetida), Black Sesame (Sesamum indicum), and Pig Large Intestine Soup is a traditional Chinese medicinal diet, rooted in the philosophy of classic TCM formulas and the wisdom of food-medicine homology. This soup features Shengma, Black Sesame, and pig large intestine as main ingredients, slowly simmered to allow the medicinal properties and flavors to blend, creating a soup that serves both regulatory and nourishing functions. This medicated diet has long been popular among the people, especially valued by those focusing on gastrointestinal health and the treatment of visceral ptosis (splanchnoptosis).

Cimicifuga foetida (Shengma) is the dried rhizome of Cimicifuga foetida L. (Ranunculaceae). Its nature and flavor are acrid, slightly sweet, and slightly cold. It enters the Lung (LU), Spleen (SP), Stomach (ST), and Large Intestine (LI) meridians. It has the effects of raising yang qi and clearing heat and resolving toxin. Black sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is neutral in nature and sweet in flavor. It enters the Liver (LR), Kidney (KI), and Large Intestine (LI) meridians. It can tonify the liver and kidney, benefit essence and blood, and moisten intestinal dryness. Pig large intestine, using the principle of “like treats like,” is rich in collagen and various trace elements, and can moisten the intestines and tonify deficiency. The combination of the three works together to raise the middle qi, moisten the intestines and unblock the bowels, and tonify and benefit the viscera. It is a health-preserving delicacy that skillfully integrates TCM theory with daily diet.

Efficacy of Medicinal Cuisine

The core efficacy of the Shengma and Black Sesame Large Intestine Decoction lies in raising the Middle Qi, moistening the intestines to unblock bowels, and tonifying deficiency to secure prolapse. This decoction provides good adjunctive regulation for conditions such as gastroptosis, rectal prolapse, and uterine prolapse caused by sinking of Middle Qi. Shengma (Cimicifuga foetida) excels at raising and lifting Yang Qi, drawing sunken Qi upward to restore the normal position of the viscera; Black Sesame (Sesamum indicum) moistens dryness and lubricates the intestines, relieving constipation due to insufficient Qi propulsion. The two herbs—one lifting, one moistening—complement each other perfectly.

In addition, this soup has the effects of tonifying qi and blood, as well as nourishing the liver and kidney. Pork large intestine is rich in protein and fat, which can tonify deficiency, moisten dryness, and enhance physical strength. The vitamin E, unsaturated fatty acids, and other components in black sesame (Sesamum indicum) help delay aging and nourish the liver and kidney. Consumed regularly in moderate amounts, it can improve symptoms of qi and blood deficiency, such as sallow complexion, dizziness and blurred vision, and soreness and weakness of the lower back and knees. It also offers a good supporting effect for those with postpartum or post-surgical debility.

The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, the Shengma Sesame and Pig Large Intestine Decoction primarily targets the core pathogenesis of “Central Qi Sinking.” Central Qi refers to the Qi of the Spleen and Stomach, which governs the ascending of clear Qi and descending of turbid Qi. If Central Qi is insufficient and lacks the strength to lift, symptoms such as organ prolapse, chronic diarrhea with rectal prolapse, shortness of breath, and fatigue may manifest. Shengma (Cimicifuga foetida) enters the Spleen and Stomach Meridians and is adept at raising Yang and lifting prolapse, making it a commonly used herb for Central Qi Sinking. When decocted with pig large intestine, it guides the medicinals into the intestines, enhancing the effect of lifting and raising.

Synergistic action of three medicinal food ingredients

Cimicifuga foetida (Shengma) is acrid, dispersing, ascending, and floating, enabling it to directly lift sunken qi. Sesamum indicum (Heizhima, black sesame) is sweet, neutral, and moistening in nature, nourishing the Liver and Kidney, moistening dryness, and lubricating the intestines, thereby preventing excessive ascending from injuring yin. Pig large intestine is sweet and neutral, using organ to supplement organ—it moistens the intestines, supplements deficiency, and serves as a carrier for Cimicifuga foetida (Shengma). These three substances—one ascending, one supplementing, one moistening—work with interdependence between ascent and descent, and mutual assistance between moistening and drying. Together, they achieve the effect of lifting without drying, and supplementing deficiency without causing stagnation. This combination strategy embodies the TCM wisdom of “interdependence of ascent and descent” and “supplementing without causing stagnation.”

Regulation of Stomach and Intestinal Functions

This formula exerts a bidirectional regulatory effect on gastrointestinal function. On one hand, through the ascending action of Shengma (Cimicifuga foetida, black cohosh), it relieves symptoms such as epigastric distension and a bearing-down sensation after meals due to gastric ptosis. On the other hand, the moistening and laxative property of Heizhima (Sesamum indicum, black sesame) alleviates difficulty in defecation caused by qi deficiency. It is particularly suitable for individuals presenting with both visceral ptosis and constipation, embodying the TCM therapeutic principle of “ascending the clear and descending the turbid.”

Indications

This medicinal food is primarily suitable for individuals with various conditions caused by Sinking of Middle Qi, including mild gastroptosis, rectal prolapse, uterine prolapse, as well as those with chronic prolonged diarrhea, shortness of breath, fatigue, and lack of energy with reluctance to speak. For patients with deficiency-type constipation due to Qi deficiency—where there is an urge to defecate but difficulty in passing stool—this soup also provides beneficial supportive regulation. For those with constitution deficiency after childbirth or surgery, moderate consumption under medical guidance can help restore strength and elevate Middle Qi.

Individuals engaged in prolonged standing or heavy physical labor who frequently experience lumbar soreness, back pain, and lower abdominal distension with a bearing-down sensation may also incorporate this soup into their daily health-preserving diet. Furthermore, for common conditions among the elderly, such as Middle Qi Deficiency (Spleen Qi Sinking), visceral ptosis (organ prolapse), and constipation, appropriate consumption of this soup can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. However, it should be noted that this soup is tonifying in nature and must be used under the guidance of a professional TCM practitioner based on pattern differentiation to ensure proper application.

Contraindicated Populations

Those with internal exuberance of Damp-Heat or Yin Deficiency with Fire Hyperactivity should avoid consumption. Although Cimicifugae Rhizoma (Shengma) is slightly cold in nature and has an ascending effect, both Sesami Nigrum Semen (Black Sesame) and Pig Large Intestine are rich and greasy, which can easily assist Dampness and generate Heat. Individuals with a Damp-Heat constitution may experience worsening symptoms such as a bitter taste in the mouth, thick and greasy tongue coating, and sticky, sluggish stools after ingestion. In cases of acute enteritis, dysentery, or diarrhea, consumption should be postponed to avoid premature supplementation that may cause lingering pathogens.

It should be used with caution in pregnant and breastfeeding women. *Cimicifuga foetida* (Shengma) has a mild blood-activating effect, and pig large intestine is rich in fat. Due to the unique physiological state of pregnancy, medicinal foods should not be taken casually and must be used under the guidance of a professional TCM practitioner. It is contraindicated in those allergic to pig large intestine or *Cimicifuga foetida* (Shengma). In addition, those with excess-type constipation (such as constipation due to heat accumulation or qi stagnation) should avoid it; this soup is primarily intended for deficiency-type constipation, and improper use may aggravate the condition. Patients with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and gout should also limit their intake, as pig large intestine is high in cholesterol and purines.

Proportions of Ingredients in a Medicinal Formula

Cimicifuga foetida (Bugbane): 10-15 g (usual dose 12 g; must be purchased as processed slices from a TCM pharmacy).

Semen Sesami Nigrum (black sesame): 30-50 g (it is recommended to use dry-fried black sesame seeds until fragrant for better medicinal efficacy and stronger aroma).

Pig Large Intestine: 500 g (preferably fresh, thoroughly cleaned middle section with balanced fat and lean).

Zingiberis Rhizoma Recens (Fresh Ginger): 15 g (sliced, used to remove fishy odor and dispel cold).

Green Onion (Allium fistulosum): 1 stalk (cut into sections, to enhance aroma).

Cooking wine: 20 ml (used for blanching to remove unpleasant flavors).

Salt: appropriate amount (for final seasoning, do not overuse).

Water: 2000 ml (approximately 8 bowls of water; after simmering, yields 4-5 bowls of soup).

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the pig large intestine. Rinse the pig large intestine thoroughly with clean water. Add wheat flour and salt, and scrub repeatedly. Rinse with clean water again. Repeat this process twice to completely remove mucus and any odor. Then place the large intestine in a pot of cold water. Add 10g ginger slices, half a scallion segment, and 10ml cooking wine. Bring to a boil over high heat, skim off the foam, then remove and rinse with warm water. Cut into sections about 3 cm in length and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the medicinal materials. Quickly rinse the Cimicifuga foetida (Largetrifoliolious Bugbane) with clean water to remove dust; no need for prolonged soaking. Stir-fry the Sesamum indicum (Black Sesame) over low heat until slightly yellow and fragrant, then remove and set aside. While stir-frying the sesame seeds, keep turning them constantly to avoid burning.

Step Three: Simmer the Soup. Place the prepared pig large intestine segments into a clay pot. Add *Rhizoma Cimicifugae* (Sheng Ma), the dry-fried black sesame seeds (*Semen Sesami Nigrum*), the remaining ginger slices, and scallion sections. Pour in 2000 ml of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer gently. Maintain a slight simmer for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, until the large intestine is tender and soft, the broth becomes milky white, and the medicinal fragrance is released.

Step 4: Seasoning and serving. Remove and discard the Shengma (Cimicifuga foetida) slices (the medicinal properties have been released into the broth). Add the remaining cooking wine and an appropriate amount of salt to season. Continue simmering for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend evenly. Turn off the heat, skim off any excess oil floating on the surface, and ladle into bowls for immediate consumption while hot. This soup can be served as a side dish during meals or enjoyed as a stand-alone medicinal food. It is recommended to consume 2–3 times per week, with a continuous course of 2–4 weeks as a complete health-regulating cycle.

Tips for Consumption

Tip 1: The best time to drink this soup is between 9–11 AM, which corresponds to the Spleen Meridian (SP) time period. During this time, consuming a medicinal food that raises the Middle Qi (Spleen Qi) is more effective. It is recommended to drink it warm on an empty or semi-empty stomach, one bowl at a time (about 200–250 ml). Chew slowly and swallow carefully to allow the soup to fully contact the gastrointestinal tract for absorption.

**Tip 2:** During the medicinal period, avoid consuming raw, cold, greasy, spicy, or irritating foods to preserve the efficacy of the herbs. Also, ensure adequate rest and avoid excessive fatigue, prolonged standing, or prolonged sitting. It is beneficial to combine treatment with pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises or gentle abdominal massage, which can help enhance the lifting effect and accelerate recovery.

Tip 3: This decoction is relatively tonifying in nature and should not be taken continuously for more than 4 weeks. If symptoms improve significantly, the frequency may be reduced to 1–2 times per week for maintenance therapy. If dry mouth, bitter taste, worsening constipation, or abdominal distension occur during administration, discontinue immediately and consult a professional TCM practitioner for adjustment. Additionally, medicinal food cannot replace standard medical treatment; if severe organ prolapse is present, prompt medical attention is still required.