Bowls of care 

By Anqi Yao, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins Observership Program, with Carolina Musri, MD, Johns Hopkins Medicine 

With a background in oncology research and currently participating in the hospital medicine observership program at Johns Hopkins, I’m immersed in the precision of modern medicine. Yet outside the clinic, I often reflect on the healing power of food, a value deeply rooted in my Chinese upbringing and closely tied to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). I still remember countless families bringing homemade soup infused with herbs to their hospitalized relatives in the oncology service.  

Traditional Chinese Medicine is one of the world’s oldest systems of medicine, with a history that spans more than 2,000 years. It beautifully emphasizes the balance of energy (Qi), blood, Yin and Yang, and views food as daily doses of prevention or therapy. Ingredients are carefully chosen not just for flavor, but for their ability to warm, cool, nourish, or detoxify the body.  

When it comes to cancer, certain herbs and foods in the TCM pharmacopeia have long been believed to support vitality, immune function, and recovery from cancer treatment. Astragalus, for instance, is often used to boost immunity. Ginseng and reishi mushroom are thought to enhance resilience and calm the spirit. Goji berries and red dates are known for nourishing blood. These ingredients are not meant to replace chemotherapy or radiation by any means but are believed to gently support the body during the healing journey.  

As a cooking enthusiast I’ve always felt that food is such a heartfelt way we care for others. The ingredients we choose and the way we prepare them can carry deep meaning. For instance, tea made from ginseng, reishi mushroom, red date and gogi berry is thought to strengthen energy and immunity. In another example, a soothing drink made from Asian pear, water chestnut, lotus root, carrot, and bamboo sugar cane, is thought to relief some of the discomfort caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.  

In many Chinese families, preparing these herbal drinks or food is a very common and practical way of expressing love and care for someone facing cancer. It’s something we do almost instinctively by selecting ingredients with intention, simmering them slowly, hoping to ease suffering in any way we can. Even if the medicinal effects are gentle or may be uncertain, the emotional nourishment is undeniable. It’s a taste of home, a reminder of being loved.  

Of course, it’s important to remember that these traditional practices are not substitutes for evidence-based treatment. But when patients are interested, and there are no safety concerns, they can sometimes serve as a gentle complement to medical care. For clinicians, simply acknowledging and, when appropriate, supporting these meaningful cultural traditions can foster trust, strengthen rapport, and bring a more human touch to patient care. 

Here are a few things I’d like to share with you: 

1. Nourishment is more than nutrients.

A warm meal can provide comfort in ways medicine alone cannot. 

2. Cultural wisdom can complement clinical care.

 Blending traditional practices with evidence-based medical care can foster trust and enhance well-being.  

3. Safety and respect go hand-in-hand.

Cultural beliefs should be respectfully considered after careful assessment of risks and benefits to ensure safety.    

Explore some recipes to try in this PDF: “Traditional Chinese Medicine Medicated Diet Recipe Book.”

This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.