What is the TCM thermal nature of Walnut Kernel?

Walnut Kernel (He Tao Ren) is classified as Sweet, Warm; Kidney, Lung, Large Intestine in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

What are the traditional TCM uses of Walnut Kernel?

In TCM, Walnut Kernel is traditionally used for: Tonifies the Kidney, warms the Lung, and moistens the intestines to promote bowel movement.

Where is Walnut Kernel documented in classical TCM texts?

Walnut Kernel appears in the Shennong Bencao Jing (~200 CE) and has been documented in TCM pharmacopoeia for over 1,800 years.

Walnut Kernel

He Tao Ren · 核桃仁 · TCM Herb Encyclopedia entry maintained by tcmplate Editorial · Updated 2026-09-05

📋 TCM Classification

Thermal Nature & Flavor: Sweet, Warm; Kidney, Lung, Large Intestine

Chinese Name: 核桃仁

Traditional Uses in Chinese Medicine

Tonifies the Kidney, warms the Lung, and moistens the intestines to promote bowel movement.

Chinese pharmacopoeia: 补肾，温肺，润肠。

Classical References

Food Therapy Applications

In TCM food therapy, Walnut Kernel is traditionally incorporated into daily meals:

Congees (rice porridges): Slow-cooked with rice to support Spleen and Stomach function
Soups and broths: Combined with other food-grade herbs for seasonal wellness
Herbal teas: Steeped as a single herb or in compound tea formulas

Note: The above describes traditional food therapy use. It does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified TCM practitioner for personalized guidance.

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