Interesting TCM Facts 101: TCM Doctors Planned What the Emperors Ate

Many people would have thought that Chinese emperors feasted daily and had an extravagant lifestyle. Much to our surprise, life in the Forbidden City was not as grandiose as many believed and the emperor did not routinely feasted on lavish foods.

The emperors’ diets were balanced and surprisingly plain. Especially in the Ming and Qing dynasties, the emperors had their diets planned by Imperial TCM doctors with the objectives of promoting health.

Seasonal menus

The diets of the emperors were adjusted according to the season. In summer when the weather is hotter and more draining in energy, the meals for the emperors were planned to be more nutritious and heavier to create more vital energy. In winter, lighter meals were served to increase body fluids to help keep the body hydrated in the coldness and dryness.

Medicinal foods

The emperors also ate food as planned by the Imperial TCM doctors that has medicinal properties. This is especially so in the Qing dynasty which use of juices, extracts, herbs and many other health promoting foods were included in the foods of the emperors. The ingredients were believed to stimulate the appetite, reduce internal heat and phlegm, nourish the body and prolong life.