Bai Lu 白露: White Dew, White Foods and the White Egret 白鹭

Bai Lu (白露) is named for the White Dew that starts to pearl in the morning as summer draws to a close. For your body, if your throat feels a little tighter or your skin feels parched in office air-conditioning, it is a seasonal cue for deep, fluid-building nourishment from the inside out.

Spiritually, we look at the White Egret (白鹭). Often spotted along Singapore's waterways, the egret stands poised and completely unbothered by changing tides. Like the Egret, it is recommended to start to contain energy more than expend it, and to bask in the sun quietly to promote calm in this season.

Strengthening Earth to Produce Metal

In Singapore, stepping between muggy outdoor humidity and dry, climate-controlled offices puts extra pressure on the Lung system. You might notice:

• Dry coughs and throat tightness, especially in air-conditioned spaces
• Parched, dull, or tight skin despite high outdoor humidity — read more on Yin Deficiency and why skin dryness requires more than moisturiser
• Higher tendency towards low moods as the energy shifts towards introspection and melancholy, associated with the Lung system

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Autumn belongs to the Metal element (governing the Lungs, skin, and upper respiratory tract) — learn more about how the 5 Elements shape TCM organ theory. The digestive Spleen belongs to the Earth element, and TCM emphasises virtuous (or vicious) cycles between them. We aim to 培土生金 — Nourish the Earth (Spleen) to Generate Metal (Lungs). By strengthening Spleen digestion through wholesome, fluid-building foods, the body naturally manufactures and distributes precious body fluids to protect your throat, skin, and nasal passages.

Seasonal Ten White Foods

While there are regional differences, Ten White Foods are traditionally boiled as they are associated with entering the Lungs to nourish.

1. White Snow Fungus 白木耳: Nature's plant-based collagen; hydrates Lung Yin.
2. Lily Bulb 百合: Quiets dry coughs and soothes lingering restlessness.
3. Lotus Seeds 白莲子: Strengthens Spleen digestion to anchor fluids.
4. Hyacinth Beans 白扁豆: Warm and neutral; strengthens the Spleen to transform fluids without creating heaviness.
5. Chinese Yam 山药: Tonifies Spleen Qi so your body can digest and transport fluids.
6. Ginkgo Nut 白果: Consolidates and astringes Lung Qi against tickly coughs.
7. Poria / Fu Ling 白茯苓: Calms the mind and gently clears fluid retention.
8. Lotus Root 白莲藕: Cooked, it nourishes Blood and builds internal moisture.
9. White Radish 白萝卜: Transforms phlegm and moves digestive action downwards.
10. White Peony Root 白芍: Softens the Liver, regulates sympathetic nervous system response, and locks in precious body fluids

What are some quick and easy TCM recipes for Bai Lu?

If gathering all Ten White Foods for a traditional recipe is too much, here are some quick and practical alternatives that are perfect for meal prep.

Quick Recipe #1: Nourishing White Soup

• White Snow Fungus 白木耳: Deeply hydrates the Lungs and generates body fluids
• Lily Bulb 百合: Nourishes Lung Yin, quiets the Heart, and calms dry autumn coughs.
• Lotus Seed 白莲子: Strengthens the Spleen to anchor moisture.
• Red Date 红枣: Adds natural sweetness while nourishing Qi and Blood.

Ingredients (4 servings):

• 1 piece dried Snow Fungus/Tremella (soak overnight, torn into small florets, discard yellow core)
• 4 - 5 tbsp dried Lily Bulbs, rinsed
• 4 - 5 tbsp dried Lotus Seeds (soak overnight, remove bitter green hearts)
• 8 - 10 Red Dates, pitted and halved
• 4-5 litres water
• Optional: Rock sugar to taste

Instructions:

1. Prep overnight: Soak the snow fungus until soft and gelatinous, break into small florets and remove hard centre; soak the lotus seeds to soften, remove the bitter green hearts.
2. Boil and Simmer Base: In a pot, combine snow fungus, lotus seeds, lily bulbs and water. Bring to a rolling boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 45 mins - 1 hour until all ingredients soften.
3. Add Red Dates: Add the halved Red Dates to the pot. Simmer gently for another 20-30 minutes until tender.
4. Finish to taste: Stir in rock sugar until fully dissolved, or let the soup cool slightly before stirring in honey. Serve warm.

Quick Recipe #2: White Lablab Bean and Ginkgo Nut Chicken Soup

A perfect example of 培土生金 in a savoury dish. This soup pairs White Hyacinth Beans 白扁豆 to strengthen the Spleen with Ginkgo Nuts 白果 to consolidate Lung Qi. Li Shizhen hailed Hyacinth Beans as the Grain of the Spleen, warm and neutral in nature and safe for regular consumption.

• White Hyacinth Beans 白扁豆: Strengthens Spleen Qi without creating dryness or heaviness.
• Ginkgo Nuts 白果: Astringes Lung Qi, preventing wheezing and coughing. (Note: Ginkgo MUST be fully cooked to remove toxicity)
• Chinese Yam 山药: Tonifies Spleen Qi to generate Lung fluids.

Ingredients (2 servings):

• 30g Dried White Hyacinth Beans 白扁豆, soaked for 1 hour
• 8-10 Shelled Ginkgo Nuts 白果, skin removed
• 100g Fresh Chinese Yam 山药, cut into chunks (or 15g dried Chinese Yam, soaked for 1 hour)
• 300g Chicken Thigh
• 2 slices Fresh Ginger
• 1.5 litres water

Instructions:

1. Pre-soak: Soak dry ingredients like beans or dried yam to soften ahead of time; soaking ingredients can be stored in the fridge until ready to cook.
2. Blanch: Blanch chicken in boiling water for 3 minutes to remove impurities, then drain.
3. Simmer: In a clean soup pot, combine the blanched chicken, soaked white hyacinth beans, chinese yam, ginger slices, and water. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Lower heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
4. Add Ginkgo: Add the ginkgo nuts and continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes until all ingredients are soft and fully cooked.
5. Serve: Add a light pinch of salt to taste and serve warm.

Looking for an effortless daily desk ritual?

If stewing soup or boiling herbs feels like one step too many during a busy workweek, keep your body protected with your office mug. Nourish your respiratory system with a warm tisane featuring Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon tuber) to lock in throat moisture and Chinese Yam to fortify your Spleen — Tranquil Dew 温润如玉 is formulated for exactly this season. Or explore the full range in our TCM Herbal Tea Sampler Box to find your daily blend.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Bai Lu and TCM Autumn Wellness

What is Bai Lu (白露) in TCM?

Bai Lu, or White Dew, is the 15th of the 24 Solar Terms in the traditional Chinese calendar. It typically falls around 7-9 September each year, marking the point when summer heat gives way to cooler, drier autumn air. In TCM, it signals the body to shift focus toward preserving internal moisture, protecting the Lungs, and conserving energy for the coming winter.

Why does TCM emphasise white-coloured foods in autumn?

The association follows the Five Elements framework: the colour white corresponds to the Metal element and the Lungs. White foods — Snow Fungus, Lily Bulb, Chinese Yam, Lotus Seed, and others — are broadly considered to enter the Lung meridian, helping to build body fluids, clear dryness, and support respiratory health. This is not about colour alone; it is a pattern of flavour, temperature, and meridian affinity that happens to cluster in pale-coloured foods. Read more about how the Five Elements work in TCM.

What are the best TCM herbs for dry skin and dry cough in September?

For dry skin and throat in early autumn, TCM typically favours Yin-nourishing and fluid-generating herbs: Snow Fungus (Tremella), Lily Bulb, Mai Men Dong (Ophiopogon), and White Peony Root. Chinese Yam and Lotus Seed are added to fortify the Spleen so that any fluids generated are actually distributed. Tranquil Dew 温润如玉 combines several of these into a practical daily ritual.

Is it safe to eat ginkgo nuts every day?

Ginkgo nuts (白果) must always be fully cooked before consumption, as raw or under-cooked ginkgo contains compounds that are toxic in high doses. Cooked, the general guidance is to limit intake to 10 or fewer nuts per day for adults. Pregnant women, children, and those on blood-thinning medications should consult a TCM practitioner before including them regularly.

What does 培土生金 (pei tu sheng jin) mean?

Literally, it translates as nourish the Earth to generate Metal. In TCM's Five Element cycle, Earth (Spleen/Stomach) is the mother of Metal (Lungs). When the Spleen is well-nourished and functioning correctly, it produces sufficient Qi and body fluids that the Lungs can then distribute. Practically, this means that strengthening digestion in autumn — through warm, easily digestible foods — is the foundation for respiratory resilience.

How does Singapore's climate affect TCM advice for Bai Lu?

Singapore sits near the equator, so the pronounced temperature drop of a Northern Chinese autumn does not apply here. However, the contrast between outdoor humidity and heavily air-conditioned indoor environments creates a similar stress on the Lung system — alternating between external dampness and artificial dryness. In addition, TCM states the energy shifts with the solar terms still apply and create differences throughout the year. The practical guidance for Bai Lu remains relevant: protect the Lungs, build internal moisture, and avoid prolonged cold exposure. For a deeper exploration of why seasonal TCM logic still applies in Singapore, see Singapore's climate and TCM's 5th season.

Can I drink TCM herbal teas every day during autumn?

Mild, food-grade TCM ingredients used in herbal teas and soups — such as Snow Fungus, Chinese Yam, Lily Bulb, and Mai Men Dong — are generally safe for daily consumption for healthy adults. They are distinct from strong medicinal decoctions prescribed for acute illness. For personalised guidance, especially if managing an acute or severe condition, consult a registered TCM practitioner. Explore our Sampler Box to trial multiple blends before committing to a daily ritual.

What is the difference between Lung Yin deficiency and Lung Qi deficiency?

Lung Qi deficiency typically presents as tiredness, a weak voice, shortness of breath, and susceptibility to colds. Lung Yin deficiency leans more towards dryness symptoms — dry cough, dry throat, dry skin, and a low-grade afternoon heat sensation. Autumn aggravates Yin deficiency patterns because the season itself is dry. A balanced TCM dietary approach is a good starting point alongside a consultation with a practitioner.

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Continue Reading

Understand the foundations
TCM 101: The 5 Elements + the 5 Organs — how the Metal, Earth, Wood, Fire, and Water elements map to organs, seasons, emotions, and flavours.

Follow the seasonal series
Li Qiu (立秋): Start of Autumn — the solar term that precedes Bai Lu, and how to ease into the seasonal transition.
Da Shu (大暑): Major Heat — the summer peak and the TCM logic of preventing winter illness in summer.

For the office worker
Why You Can't Switch Off — TCM patterns behind nervous system dysregulation, and how Liver Qi stagnation compounds autumn dryness.
Take A Pause Before Corporate Burnout — six traditional TCM infusions suited to a desk-bound lifestyle.