What is Fish Maw? - How fish maw is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine
During Dr. Ming Wu's recent visit to NY, he explained that he saw Fish Maw in his supplier's warehouse. He explained that it is an extremely desirable ingredient used in TCM and that it usually costs $7,000 for an ounce.
So what exactly is Fish Maw? Fish maw is the dried swim bladder of large fish usually yellow croakers and sturgeons. This swim bladder in the wild allows fish to maintain buoyancy and maintain a specific depth in the ocean. Fish maw is desirable for having collagen, proteins, calcium, phosphorus, and selenium. It also improves blood circulation
Fish maw is considered to be one of the top four delicacies of the sea, the other three being sea cucumber, abalone, and shark fin. It is sought after for its abundant health effects ranging from making the skin softer and more youthful to nourishing yin deficiencies.
It is great for tonifying yin (especially for women) and helps the skin appear more youthful due to it's collagen. It is also great for women experiencing (excessive menstrual bleeding) and good after pregnancy.
Even though it can even be used to treat life threating yin deficiency, it is also a great medicine for preventative health reasons and for that reason is enjoyed as a soup in several places all the way from Guangzhou, China to Chinatown, NY. It is best used 1x a month and Dr. Ming Wu recommends consumption after dinner, remarking "Give it a try and see for yourself! You'll feel so good!".
It is important to note that the sourcing of swim bladders have caused certain species to be endangered, so make sure you due your due diligence when sourcing.
Sources
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14786419.2015.1040790
https://eatconnection.com/what-is-fish-maw/
https://5erenity2.com/blogs/recipes/fish-maw-for-your-skin
http://www.emperorbrandbirdnest.com/our-news/product-knowledge/about-fish-maw.html
https://www.newmalaysiankitchen.com/fish-maw/