Good Health, Good Sense

The coming of spring is heralded by the Japanese as a time of change and renewal, not only in nature, but in body, mind and spirit. The transient nature of all things means that time is limited in which to kick-start ailing immune systems in readiness for the long, hot slog of the Japanese summer. Traditional oriental thought forms the basis of good health practices here, and while some DIY remedies may be obviously wholesome, others can be downright alarming. Here’s how to keep Yin happy with Yang and the Five elements singing in unison.

Tamagosake

As a picker upper there is nothing better than sake and a raw egg dropped into it from a height sufficient to cause a loud, stomach-churning plop! If the idea of raw food (think salmon-ella) gives you the heebie-jeebies, remember that the Japanese have been eating the stuff for centuries with no ill effects. As with most things, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down and you can be smug in the knowledge that this one is not for the faint-hearted while getting a buzz from the warm, sleep-inducing alcohol.

Lemon and Ginger

For this traditional remedy simply add the juice of lemons to finely grated ginger and add hot water. Ginger is effective as a digestive that wards off bacteria — a characteristic that is justification on its own for its presence on sushi counters everywhere. Consume as much as your taste buds can withstand and inhale the decongesting vapours as you float off with recollections of last winter’s hot toddy (ask a Brit).

Japanese Mushroom Broth

Recent scientific studies have confirmed that shiitake mush-rooms can be used to improve sexual performance. The theory is that this prized fungi stimu-lates blood flow much like Ginko Biloba, with tiny amounts of hydro-chloride providing a subtle uplifting effect. Infuse in hot water then drink immediately. Unlike their hallucinogenic cousins, these stimulating ‘shrooms can be bought from ordinary grocers and super-markets throughout Japan.

Mugwort brew (Yomogi)

It may sound like something a Hobbit would drink but the dried leaves of this mountain herb have a variety of uses ranging from the treatment of depression to keeping mosquitoes away. Believed to ward off the many guises of evil, disease being one (and demons being another), people suffering so-called psychogenic disturbances were slapped around the head by a healer shouting “Devil away! Devil away!” Mugwort is embraced with less theatricality now, but nonetheless is a great way to ensure a restful sleep.

HEALTH WARNING:
The following are not to be attempted without expert supervision.
Okyu Grasses are burned and placed on the skin to stimulate the nerve endings. A barrier cream is used to minimize scarring.
Shiraku or Bloodletting Acupuncture pressure points are impregnated with a long, fine needle to resolve the stasis of
the ki and blood in the body. Bleeding is stopped after the energy has made one complete circuit of the body.

Book Giveaway

KS is giving away three copies of 'Healthy Living—
The Japanese Way—The Secret Ingredients',
a pocket book on Japanese seasonal organic ingredients. To win your copy, just answer this question and email to giveaway@kansaiscene.com

Which ingredient is good for memory improvement:
A) Daizu B)Natto C) Wakame D) Miso

Winner will be annouced in next issue.
Last month's winner: Eoghan Bolster

Text: Aimee Foy • Photos: KS