Psoralea, Walnut and Lotus Seed Soup

Why people make this soup

A healthy complexion — in traditional Cantonese thinking — reflects the state of the inner body. When the kidneys and spleen are functioning well, the face tends to look vibrant and well-rested. When these systems are depleted, the complexion can turn dull, grey, or even slightly dark, and the person often feels cold, fatigued, and generally below par. This soup was designed for exactly that pattern.

Psoralea seed (bu gu zhi) is the central herb here — warm in nature, it is traditionally associated with tonifying kidney yang and supporting the spleen’s digestive function. Combined with walnuts (which also warm and nourish the kidneys), lotus seeds (which calm and ground the spirit while nourishing the spleen), and goji berries (for their broad nourishing action), this becomes a gently warming soup suited to regular use across cooler months.

Method

1. Slice the lean pork, then blanch briefly in boiling water to remove impurities. Drain.
2. Rinse all remaining ingredients and soak if needed.
3. Combine all ingredients in a pot with 2.4 L of water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 2 hours, until reduced to about 1.2 L.
5. Serve warm. Encourage eating the walnuts and lotus seeds along with the soup — much of the benefit comes from the ingredients, not just the broth.

Nourilo’s Tips

Regular use of this soup — two servings a week — can, over time, support a rosier, healthier-looking complexion. However, remember that this soup warms and tonifies, so it is not appropriate for everyone. If you have a hot or overheated constitution, please do not use this soup. If you are unsure which constitution type you are, look for descriptions of spleen-kidney yang deficiency versus yin deficiency — the distinction matters here.