
Can Food Be Medicine?
The Case for Eating Silkie Chicken\
We live in a time where many are rethinking their relationship with food—not just as fuel, but as a powerful tool for healing. So where does Silkie chicken fit into this philosophy? As it turns out, this unusual bird has been part of healing kitchens for centuries.
The Traditional Medicine Connection
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Silkie chicken—often called wu gu ji, or black-boned chicken—has long been used as a tonic food. Recipes often include herbs like goji berries, ginger, or ginseng to create broths believed to support:
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Postpartum recovery
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Immune function
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Kidney and liver health
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Fertility and hormonal balance
Even without the herbs, Silkie meat itself is considered “warming” and restorative.
Functional Nutrition for Modern Times
What traditional medicine observed, modern science is beginning to explain:
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High levels of carnosine and anserine (helpful for inflammation and neurological health)
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Natural collagen and gelatin (supporting gut lining and joints)
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Bioavailable iron and zinc (supporting energy, hormones, and immune resilience)
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Lean, clean protein (easier to digest and less inflammatory for many people)
Whether you're recovering from an illness, supporting your hormonal system, or simply trying to eat cleaner, Silkie chicken offers concentrated nourishment in a small, easy-to-prepare package.
How to Use Silkie Chicken in a Healing Kitchen
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Slow-cooked bone broth: Extract collagen, minerals, and immune-supportive compounds
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Traditional tonic soups: Combine with herbs for layered healing benefits
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Organ meats: Include the liver, heart, and other organs for deeper nourishment
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One-pot recovery meals: Easy to digest and rich in supportive compounds
Silkies may not look like your average chicken, but that’s precisely the point. Their differences are what make them such a valuable addition to healing traditions—old and new.