A lovely symbol of innocence, devotion, and renewal, the lily is widely recognized as a gentle, holistic healer. In many cultures, the beautiful flower is associated with purity and rebirth, while its uplifting fragrance relieves anxiety and promotes emotional healing.
In traditional Chinese medicine, the lily bulb (bai he) has long been valued for its calming and clearing effects on the body.
Understanding lilies
Lilies are perennial, flowering bulbs found naturally across much of the Northern Hemisphere. As members of the Liliaceae family, they exhibit lanceolate leaves, often in a whorled pattern, along a sturdy stem — which bears large, trumpet-shaped flowers at the top.
The flowers, leaves, and young shoots of many lilies (Lilium genus) are edible, but the most nutritious part of the plant is its bulb.
The bulbs are composed of overlapping scales, much like cloves of garlic, but thinner and without the skin. These starchy scales have a mild bitter-sweetness, and are considered safe for regular consumption in moderation.
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Brown’s lily (Lilium brownii) and tiger lily (Lilium lancifolium) are specifically cultivated for culinary and therapeutic use. The fresh bulbs are commonly used in stir-fries, while dried bulbs are cooked in soups and desserts.
Another traditional Chinese herb called “golden needles” consists of the dried flower buds of daylilies — also a perennial bulb, but from a different genus (Hemerocallis) and family (Asphodelaceae). They are not true lilies, so we will save this topic for another day; but this brings up an important point:
Not all lilies are edible/medicinal
Like daylilies, many plants bearing the common name “lily” are not true lilies — including calla lily, peace lily, trout lily, and the highly-toxic lily-of-the-valley. Even within the Lilium genus, some species — like Easter lilies — should not be consumed.
In addition, Easter lilies, Asiatic lilies and tiger lilies (including leaves, flowers, and pollen) are highly toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure.
Bai he (百合) in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM)
That said, bai he (Chinese lily bulb) is considered one of the gentlest and best tolerated herbs listed in Materia Medica, a comprehensive catalogue of medicinal herbs used in TCM. Lily bulb’s nature is said to be sweet, cooling and moistening, which makes it ideal for treating yin-deficiency.
Historically, bai he has been said to 养阴润肺 (nourish the yin and moisten the lungs) and 清心安神 (clear the heart and calm the mind). It has traditionally been used to improve skin complexion and treat coughs, dry throats, irritability, insomnia, absent-mindedness and palpitation.
It is still recommended within TCM for the following conditions:
- Chronic, dry cough or throat irritation caused by dryness, lung yin deficiency, or illness recovery.
- Anxiety, insomnia and restlessness related to heart or lung imbalances.
- Dryness, night sweats or low-grade fevers due to excessive heat or yin deficiency.
- Emotional instability and agitation due to grief or sadness.
- Dry skin or throat, due to dry or windy climate.
TCM cautions against its use in patients suffering from symptoms of cold and moist, as the herb’s nature can further aggravate such conditions.
How does bai he work?
The complex chemical composition of bai he earns it nutraceutical standing. Nutraceutical is a term for plants, foods, or naturally occurring compounds that exhibit pharmaceutical effects. Researchers have uncovered the bioactive compounds in lily bulbs that account for this herb’s medicinal properties:
- Alkaloids have various therapeutic purposes including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and mood enhancement.
- Amino acids are instrumental in supporting immune function and improving sleep and mood.
- Flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Pectin, as a soluble fiber, supports gut health.
- Polysaccharides provide energy and support immune function.
- Saponins, recognized for their antioxidant effect, help support a strong immune system.
- Essential vitamins and minerals, like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, iron B and C vitamins support a wide range of metabolic processes and bodily functions.
Through in vitro and vivo models, researchers have observed antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, hepato(liver)protective, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory, joint-protective, and sedative biological activities with lily bulb.
How to use lily bulb
While there are numerous prescription formulas that include bai he as a supportive component, the bulb is mild and tasty enough to be used in cooking. Fresh bulbs are often used in stir-fries, while the dried scales are added to soups or porridge.
Fresh lily bulbs are seasonal, and are most likely to appear in the produce section of your local Asian market in the fall. Dried lily bulbs can be purchased year-round online or at Asian groceries.
Traditional Chinese Recipe
Pear & Bai Mu Er (snow fungus) Soup
This light and refreshing soup combines bai he with other Chinese herbs to enhance its therapeutic activities. White fungus (Tremella fuciformis), also called “snow fungus” nourishes the Yin of the lung and stomach. Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) seeds tonify the kidneys and nourish jing. The dried fruits tonify qi and blood, and pear helps moisturize tissues and dispel mucus.
Together with bai he, they serve to strengthen the lungs, calm the spirit, and alleviate dry skin and scratchy throat.
Ingredients:
- ½ pear (Asian)
- 5-10 grams dry bai mu er (snow fungus)
- 30 g lian zi (lotus seeds)
- 10 g dry bai he (lily bulb)
- 10 g gou qi zi (goji berries)
- 5 pieces hong zao (jujube)
- Rock sugar or honey to taste
- Filtered water to cover the ingredients
Instructions:
To preserve the quality of the more delicate ingredients, it is recommended to use a double boiler or place a small pot inside a large steamer. You can also use the “slow cook” setting on your instant pot.
- Soak the snow fungus and lotus seeds separately in clean water for 4-6 hours.
- Measure other dry ingredients and rinse in fresh water.
- Cut the jujube fruits and remove the pits.
- Core and cut the pear into thick slices.
- Place everything except the sweetener in a pot.
- Add enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Using the gentle cooking method of your choice, cook for about 2-3 hours.
- Stir occasionally and replenish water as necessary.
- Remove from heat and add sweetener to taste.
- Allow sugar or honey to dissolve.
- Stir, and enjoy the sweet, soothing soup while still warm.
