Parts Most Frequently Used: The entire dried seahorse.

Flavors/Temps: Sweet, Salty, Warming

Caution: Not recommended for use during pregnancy.

History/Folklore: An old Chinese saying says, “Eating seahorses keeps your 80-year-old grandpa young!” It is a raunchy reference to the herbs aphrodisiac properties. Seahorses are not an overnight cure for infertility or lack of sexual drive, but as a long term tonic they are said to work wonders. They are often steeped in wine for treating impotence.

Another ancient Chinese saying says, “North is Ginseng and South is Seahorse.” pointing to the herbs similar strength in promoting Kidney Yang, and treating impotence.

Seahorses are also used to treat asthma, respiratory ailments, circulation problems, joint pain and incontinence. Used externally they are good for restoring and cleaning the skin, and helping to prevent early signs of aging.

Seahorses are protected in China and are only legal when farmed, and not caught in the wild, that said, they continue to be illegally harvested in other parts of the world. So pay attention to your source and support farmed suppliers and not wild caught. They are sensitive to flash photography which can damage their skin and require the finest water quality in order to survive, many have also died in poorly prepared home aquariums.

Typically, seahorses are powdered and blended with other herbs. The best quality whole dry sea horses are smooth, pale and large. They can sell for up to $550 U.S. per pound.

Whole dried seahorses are popular in soups and are said to taste a bit like scallops, but are more salty and full of tiny bones.

Seahorses are monogamous and mate for life. As they only produce around 1,000 young per year, considered a very low amount by reproductive standards, this makes it difficult for them to recover if over-fished.

Seahorses area symbol of patience, friendliness, protection and perspective. In Celtic iconography they are seen as a brave and patient mariner of the sea. It is a totem for people who are calm, mild and have open minds.