Huai Shan
淮山, 山藥
What is Dried Chinese Yam?
Scientific name: Rhizoma Dioscorea
English name: Dried Chinese Yam (Huai Shan)
Chinese name: 淮山, 山藥 (Mandarin: huái shān / shān yào; Cantonese: waai4 saan1 / saan1 joek6)
Huai Shan is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, also known as Chinese wild yam. It is commonly found in dried, sliced form, though fresh whole roots are also available. Huai Shan is often added to soups for its mild flavor and health benefits, and it is a key ingredient in Ching Bo Leung (清補涼), a popular herbal blend valued for its detoxifying and restorative effects.
Natural sun-dried Chinese yam is wavy in shape with better medicinal value compared to conventional machine sliced and pressed yams.
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According to TCM, huai shan is neutral in nature. It influences the kidneys, lungs and spleen. Strengthens and improves digestion, supports the respiratory system, tonifies and stabilizes the kidneys. It may help relieve the symptoms like diarrhea, wheezing, whole body weakness, and frequent urination. It can be used in preparation of soup, porridge, dessert and medicine.
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Huai Shan is white, smooth and about ⅛” thick, it is sold loose or packaged.
Wild Huai Shan is unprocessed, it is slightly yellow and is dried naturally.
Huaishan is often used with various herbs to make tonic soups