Horse Bean in Chinese Medicine

Horse bean, also called broad bean, has been valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries. It is known for supporting the spleen, helping with water retention, and treating certain skin and digestive issues. Unlike strong herbs, horse bean is considered neutral in nature and sweet in taste, making it gentle and versatile. It mainly affects the spleen and stomach.

Key Benefits

  • Reduces Edema (Swelling): Helps the body remove excess water.

  • Relieves Tinea Capitis (Scalp Infection): Used externally to fight this fungal condition.

  • Supports Digestion: Strengthens the spleen and stomach, improving appetite and relieving diarrhea.

  • Helps Stop Bleeding: In cases of blood in the stool, horse bean powder can be taken internally.

How It Works in TCM

In TCM, the spleen is the organ responsible for transforming food into energy and transporting fluids. When the spleen is weak, dampness builds up, causing swelling, poor appetite, and diarrhea. Horse bean helps by tonifying the spleen and moving out dampness.

Traditional Preparations

1. For Edema (Swelling)

  • Boil 70g horse beans with 70g wax gourd peel.

  • Drink the liquid as a tea to reduce water retention.

2. For Tinea Capitis (Scalp Infection)

  • Crush fresh horse beans into a paste.

  • Apply directly to the scalp.

  • If fresh beans are not available, use dried beans.

3. For Diarrhea and Blood in Stool

  • Sun-dry fresh horse beans and grind into powder.

  • Take 2 teaspoons mixed in warm water, 3 times daily.

4. For Children with Poor Appetite or Diarrhea

  • Boil horse bean powder with sugar in water.

  • Use white sugar if there is no bleeding.

  • Use brown sugar if bleeding is present.

  • Drink as a tea. Interestingly, older powder is considered more effective.

Safety and Use

Horse beans are food-like in strength, making them generally safe. However, people with severe digestive weakness or those prone to allergies should be cautious.

Conclusion

Horse bean is more than just a food—it is a gentle TCM remedy that supports digestion, relieves swelling, and treats certain infections. With simple preparations, it can be used both internally and externally, showing the practical wisdom of Chinese medicine.