Nature's Gentle Relief: How Lotus Root and Sesame Seeds Ease Constipation in the Elderly

As we age, our bodies undergo many changes, and our digestive system is often one of the first to signal a need for extra care. Constipation, a common and uncomfortable issue for many seniors, is frequently viewed in Western medicine as a lack of fiber or water. However, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a more nuanced perspective: it is often a sign of Intestinal Dryness due to a deficiency of Yin and Body Fluids.

In the TCM pantry, two simple, food-based heroes stand out for their gentle yet effective moistening properties: the humble Lotus Root and the mighty Sesame Seed.

The TCM View of Elderly Constipation: A Problem of Dryness

In TCM, Yin represents the cooling, moistening, and nourishing aspects of the body. With age, our innate Yin energy naturally declines, much like a well slowly drying up. This can lead to a lack of lubrication in the intestines, making stools hard, dry, and difficult to pass. Forceful straining can further deplete energy (Qi), creating a vicious cycle.

Unlike harsh laxatives that stimulate the bowels and can lead to dependency, the TCM approach is to moisten and nourish. The goal is to add moisture to the system itself, allowing for smooth and natural elimination. This is where lotus root and sesame seeds excel.

Lotus Root (莲藕, Lián Ổu): The Cool, Moistening Hydrator

The lotus root, a staple in Asian cuisine, is more than just a crunchy vegetable. In TCM, it is highly valued for its sweet nature and cool property.

• TCM Properties: Sweet, Cool; enters the Lung, Stomach, and Heart channels.

• Key Action: Generates Body Fluids (Jin Ye) and clears heat.

• How it Helps: Lotus root is exceptionally effective at adding fluid and moisture to the entire body, including the intestines. Think of it as a natural internal humidifier. Its cool nature is also beneficial if constipation is accompanied by a feeling of heat or dryness in the body. For the elderly, it’s a safe and gentle way to combat intestinal dryness without being overly cooling for the digestion.

• Simple Preparation: It can be juiced (raw lotus root juice is a potent fluid-generator), added to soups, or stir-fried. Cooking it softens its cool nature, making it even more digestible.

Sesame Seeds (黑芝麻, Hēi Zhī Ma): The Nutritious Lubricant

Especially black sesame seeds, are considered a superior tonic in TCM, often called a "superfood" for aging well.

• TCM Properties: Sweet, Neutral; enters the Liver and Kidney channels.

• Key Action: Nourishes the Blood and Yin, moistens the Intestines.

• How it Helps: Sesame seeds are rich in natural oils, which directly lubricate the intestinal tract. More profoundly, they are believed to nourish the Kidney and Liver Yin, addressing the root cause of the body's declining moisture levels. By strengthening the fundamental Yin energy, they provide deep, long-term relief from dryness, which benefits not only constipation but also dry skin, brittle hair, and dizziness.

• Important Tip: To get the full benefits, sesame seeds must be gently toasted and ground into a powder or used as a paste (like tahini). This breaks down the hard outer shell, making their nourishing oils and essence easily absorbable by the body.

A Powerful Combination: A Simple Recipe for Relief

Combining these two ingredients creates a synergistic effect that is both soothing and strengthening for the digestive system of an elderly person.

Lotus Root and Sesame Congee (Moistening Porridge)

Congee, a slow-cooked rice porridge, is itself a classic TCM remedy for strengthening digestion. This version is specifically designed to moisten the intestines. Enjoying a warm bowl of this congee a few times a week can provide gentle, cumulative support for maintaining intestinal health.

A Note of Caution

While these foods are generally very safe, it is always best to introduce any new remedy gradually. If constipation is severe or persistent, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified TCM practitioner to rule out other underlying conditions and receive personalized advice.

By turning to the wisdom of Chinese medicine and incorporating gentle, nourishing foods like lotus root and sesame seeds, we can support the well-being of our elderly loved ones, helping them find comfort and vitality from the inside out.

Net Weight: 10.58 fl. oz (300ml/g) 

Country of Origin: Taiwan

Sweet Garden has been established since 1990. Our policy is "Our brand is the guarantee of quality, and quality is the backing of our brand". With industry leading quality, Sweet Garden was granted the ISO9001, ISO22000, HACCP, HALAL and Taiwan Organic certificate. Combined modern scientific technology and strict quality control management, Sweet Garden strives to break away from traditional dietary culture to provide consumers with the safest and highest quality health products from natural ingredients.