Men who nourish their kidneys feel more confident!

**Men, Boost Your Kidney Health and Gain More Confidence!** A passionate netizen (Ruo Shui, QQ: 915385068): Hello, Teacher Hu! If you often experience lower back pain, it might be time to nourish your kidneys. I’d like to share an effective kidney-tonifying formula: 30 grams each of **Cibotium barometz (狗脊)**, **Dipsacus asperoides (川断)**, and **Cuscuta chinensis (菟丝子)**. This combination can strengthen the lower back, replenish essence, tonify the kidneys, and fortify bones. **Method**: 1. Soak the herbs in water for 30 minutes before decocting, then add 400 milliliters of water. 2. Boil the herbs until the liquid is reduced by half, then strain the decoction. Repeat the process once more using the same method. 3. Mix the two batches of decoction and drink 200 milliliters each in the morning and evening. Generally, noticeable results can be observed after consistently taking this remedy for about a week. The efficacy of this formula is one aspect, but I must also mention an important concept in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): **"nourishing like with like"** (以形补形). For example, walnut kernels resemble the human brain and are believed to nourish the brain and calm the mind. Similarly, **Cibotium barometz (狗脊)** typically grows at the foot of mountains, near ditches, or in shaded areas under trees. In TCM, it is believed to strengthen the lower back and support tendons. The name "狗脊" (Cibotium barometz) might sound amusing or even misleading, as it literally translates to "dog’s spine." However, it is actually a medicinal herb named for its resemblance to a dog’s spine. Clinically, its role in tonifying the kidneys and strengthening bones is well-established. **Dipsacus asperoides (川断)** nourishes the liver and kidneys, strengthens tendons and bones, promotes healing of fractures, and helps stop abnormal uterine bleeding. It is particularly effective for alleviating soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, as well as tendon injuries and fractures. **Cuscuta chinensis (菟丝子)** is another commonly used kidney-tonifying herb. As mentioned earlier, kidney deficiency often manifests as lower back pain, which explains why Cuscuta chinensis can effectively address issues like soreness in the lower back and legs. **Next Page: TCM Massage Techniques for Kidney Health**