Date: 07/12/2025 07/13/2025
Location: Star Lake Meditation Center
Teacher: Shilin Long
Buddhist Diet and Regimen
The Heat-Clearing and Detoxifying Effects of Mung Beans
Summary
Mung beans are a popular heat-clearing food in summer and are praised in traditional Chinese medicine as a “cooling grain.” Sweet in flavor and cold in nature, mung beans target the heart and stomach meridians and are known for their ability to clear heat, detoxify, promote urination, relieve swelling, and quench thirst. Rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, mung beans are both nourishing and medicinal. This article explores the detoxifying effects of mung beans and how to incorporate them for optimal summer health.
1. Key Components and Functional Basis
1.Plant Protein: Easily absorbed and aids in tissue repair from heat-induced inflammation.
2.Polysaccharides & Flavonoids: Offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping neutralize toxins.
3.B Vitamins & Vitamin C: Support energy metabolism and relieve fatigue caused by internal heat.
4.Potassium & Magnesium: Help regulate fluid balance and enhance cooling diuretic effects.
2. Heat-Clearing and Detoxifying Benefits
1.Reduces Internal Heat: Helps cool down excessive heat in the heart and stomach, relieving symptoms like dry mouth, irritability, and restlessness.
2.Detoxifies Skin: Clears toxins that can cause acne, boils, and rashes—supporting skin clarity.
3.Relieves Summer Heat: Mung bean soup or porridge helps lower body temperature and prevent heatstroke.
4.Promotes Urination & Reduces Swelling: Assists in removing excess body fluid caused by heat-related stagnation.
5.Natural Antibacterial Support: Compounds in mung bean skins exhibit mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
3. Common Consumption Methods
1.Mung Bean Soup: Ideal for hot weather; can be paired with lily bulb or coix seed for enhanced effects.
2.Mung Bean Porridge: Suitable for the weak or those recovering, offering gentle detox while replenishing energy.
3.Mung Bean Paste or Cakes: Light desserts that are refreshing and cleansing when consumed in moderation.
4.Mung Bean Beverages: Cooked or cold-brewed for hydrating and cooling effects in summer.
4. Usage Tips and Precautions
1.Best For: Individuals prone to internal heat, acne, skin inflammation, or summer fatigue.
2.Use With Caution: Due to its cold nature, those with weak digestion or chronic diarrhea should eat in moderation or pair with warming foods.
3.Cooking Tips: Avoid overcooking to preserve nutrients and avoid drinking mung bean soup on an empty stomach.
