Three-Seed, Eucommia and Sea Cucumber Soup (San Zi Du Zhong Dun Hai Shen)

Why people make this soup

In Chinese medicine, the kidneys are considered the root of reproductive energy — they store what is called “jing” (essence), which underpins healthy hormonal function, sperm quality, and egg health in modern biomedical terms. When this reserve is depleted — through overwork, stress, or simply ageing — fertility can be affected in both men and women. Nourilo recommends this double-boiled soup as a sustained, gentle approach to kidney nourishment. The three seeds — dodder, mulberry, and goji — each contribute from a slightly different angle; eucommia bark strengthens the yang side of kidney function; and sea cucumber is one of the rare ingredients that supports both yin and yang simultaneously, without the one-sided “heating” effect of many tonic herbs. Together they form a balanced, practical soup that couples can share and take weekly over one to two months as part of a broader fertility wellness plan.

Method

1. Place the dodder seeds and mulberry fruit into a tea bag or muslin pouch (they are fine seeds that would otherwise cloud the broth).
2. Blanch the sea cucumber and lean pork briefly in ginger-infused water; drain.
3. Place the goji berries, eucommia bark, sea cucumber, and lean pork into a double-boiling pot (zhun zhong / ceramic soup pot with lid).
4. Add the tea bag with dodder and mulberry seeds.
5. Pour in 0.9–1.2 L of freshly boiled water.
6. Place the pot inside a larger pot of boiling water; double-boil for about 3 hours.
7. Drink the soup; eat the sea cucumber and goji berries.
8. Recommended frequency: 1–2 doses per week for two months.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is beneficial for both sexes. For those with yang deficiency — erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, general weakness — it provides warm, sustained support. Sea cucumber can also be replaced by fresh abalone for variety, though the two have different nutritional profiles. Red-skinned peanuts, red dates, or goji berries can also be added to the formula for added blood-nourishing effects.