Parts Most Frequently Used: Stems

Flavors/Temps: Sweet, Slightly Salty, Bland, Cool

Caution: This herb can cause dampness so do not use in cases of abdominal distension due to damp.

History/Folklore: Good quality is said to be shiny, golden in color and pliable. It is the white pulpy insides that contain the tonic properties.

Dendrobium is especially noted for being a Kidney Yin tonic. The Chinese Taoists used it as a daily tea to promote longevity and help build Jing (Essence). Restoring Kidney Jing strengthens the whole body. It is said to increase the sexual fluids in men and women as well as increasing saliva.

Dendrobium is considered a perfect herb for those entering the healing arts as it is said to provide “healing energy” itself, helping healers to replenish themselves after and during healing practices.

Orchid and Licorice Tea is a classic daily tea made up of four or five pieces of licorice to double the amount of dendrobium. Simmer for about twenty minutes and enjoy daily.

Dendrobium helps moisten and nourish the skin preventing dryness and Natives of the Himalayas use dendrobium to treat hot, red eye disorders.

Orchids are long-lasting and elegant plants. In Ancient Greece they were a symbol of fertility and virility. Eating the flower’s large new orchid tubers was said to insure the birth of a baby boy. Eating small orchid tubers would help you give birth to a baby girl.

In Victorian England orchids took on a mantle of luxury and delicacy. They are a symbol of perfection and beauty. In Ancient China the flowers were a symbol of many children, refinement and innocence.

Growing dendrobium at home can eradicate pollutants and toxins from the air creating a clean environment.