Glehnia, Ophiopogon, Dendrobium and Conch Soup

Why people make this soup

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) tends to present, in Chinese medicine terms, as a pattern of yin deficiency with excess fire: the body feels too warm, the mind is restless, sweating is excessive, the throat and mouth feel dry, appetite may be unusually large while weight drops, and the heartbeat may feel rapid or irregular. These are uncomfortable symptoms to live with, and managing them through diet — alongside prescribed medical treatment — is a sensible approach.

Nourilo bought two packets of frozen American conch over the New Year period and noted how excellent conch is for people in this kind of yin-deficient, heat-excess state. Conch is considered deeply nourishing to yin and highly restorative of physical energy. Paired with three herbs that specifically address lung and stomach yin deficiency — glehnia root, ophiopogon, and dendrobium — this soup is particularly suited to hyperthyroid patients who experience heat intolerance, dry throat, constipation, and mental restlessness. The gentle sweetness of red dates and ginger rounds out the flavour.