autumn dryness

In Chinese medicine the lung and large intestine are associated with Autumn, the function of the lung is to extract qi from air, using it to nourish the tissue and internal processes. Part of this Qi along with Qi from food goes to build defensive Qi (wei Qi). This wei Qi is similar to western concept of the immune system. Because the lung interacts directly with the outside environment, it play an important role in fighting off external pathogens. In Chinese medicine the lung detest dryness, therefore it is important to eat yin rich foods and stay well hydrated during autumn, the driest season.

To prevent your lungs from getting too dry it is wise to focus on seasonal vegetables and fruits including sweet potatoes, turnips, carrots, squash, pears, pumpkin, red date, pear and apple. The best way to cook these vegetables and fruits is by stewing them or turning them into a soup as this preserves the moisture.In China autumn is dry and still, the beginning of the yin period of contraction and refinement. Therefore there is an underlying focus of yin tonification. I have selected an 'autumn pear pie' according to season and the importance of protecting the lung system and preventing the bowels from becoming dry and constipated.