The TCM Secret: Alligator & Mushroom Soup for Canine Respiratory Health
As pet parents, the change in weather—that sudden shift in temperature or humidity—can be terrifying when you have a dog prone to respiratory sensitivities or reverse sneezing. We know that heartbreaking sound, and we know you want more than a quick fix.
At BarkiesNGoodies, we turn to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for a holistic solution. This soup is the very formula we simmer for our Bully mix, Bobby, when he starts showing signs of struggle. It focuses on strengthening the Metal Element (Lungs) and resolving Phlegm at the source.
Important Note on Medicinal Mushrooms (Reishi)
While Reishi is incredibly beneficial, its potency means a small amount goes a long way. The dosage in soup form should be therapeutic, not excessive. Always use high-quality, dried or sliced medicinal mushrooms.
Holistic TCM Respiratory Support Soup
This recipe uses ingredients specifically chosen to Nourish Lung Yin (moisture), Tonify Qi, and Resolve Phlegm.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | TCM Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Bone (with meat) | 1-1.5 lbs | Sweet, Warm. Provides the nourishing foundation of Qi and Blood to support the entire system. |
|
Alligator Meat (Diced/Cubed) |
2-3 oz | Sweet, Neutral. Star for cough. Should be cooked (boiled) for this soup. Traditionally used to Nourish Lungs and Kidneys. |
| Dried Shiitake Mushrooms | 5-6 pieces | Sweet, Neutral. Tonifies Qi, transforms Phlegm, and aids the Spleen. |
| Dried Reishi Mushroom Slices | 2-3 thin slices | Calms Shen and boosts Wei Qi (Immune Defense). Very potent; this small amount is sufficient. |
| Cordyceps Flowers (蟲草花) | 1 handful (approx 10g) | Sweet, Neutral. Supports both Lung and Kidney Qi, ideal for chronic, stress-related respiratory issues. |
| Dried Lion's Mane Mushroom | 2-3 pieces | Sweet, Neutral. Supports Spleen function (to resolve Phlegm source) and nerve health. |
| Filtered Water | 10-12 cups | For a slow, therapeutic simmer. |
Instructions
- Soak the Herbs: Place all the dried mushrooms (including the measured Reishi) and Cordyceps flowers into a bowl and cover with warm water for at least 30 minutes to rehydrate.
- Blanch the Meat: Place the chicken and alligator meat in a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil for 2-3 minutes to remove impurities (scum). Drain the water and rinse the meat/bones clean.
- Combine & Simmer: Return the blanched meat and bones to the clean pot. Add the soaked mushrooms (and the soaking liquid, if clean). Add the Cordyceps, Lion's Mane, and Reishi. Fill the pot with 10-12 cups of filtered water.
- Cook: Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to the lowest simmer. Cover and let cook for 3 to 4 hours. The cooking process is vital for breaking down the chitin in the mushrooms and making the Alligator meat safe and digestible.
- Cool: Skim off any excess fat (optional). *****Remove and discard the tough Reishi slices***** before serving, as they are used for infusion only and are indigestible for dogs in this form.
Dosage (Daily Consumption)
This soup is designed as a functional food topper.
| Dog Weight | Daily Serving Size (Soup & Cooked Meat/Mushrooms) |
|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | 1/4 cup (split into 2 meals) |
| Medium (20-50 lbs) | 1/2 cup (split into 2 meals) |
| Large (50+ lbs) | 3/4 cup to 1 full cup (split into 2 meals) |
Storage and Batching
This recipe makes a large batch, perfect for efficiency.
- Refrigeration: The soup is safe to store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Consume this portion first.
-
Freezing (Best Method): Freeze the remaining soup to maintain freshness and medicinal potency.
- Portioning: Pour the cooled soup, broth, and a mix of the cooked meat/mushrooms into freezer-safe containers (ice cube trays or 1/2 cup containers).
- Storage Duration: Frozen portions should be consumed within 3 months.
- Thawing: Thaw the frozen portion in the refrigerator overnight, or heat gently on the stovetop before serving. Serve warm, not hot.
Explore Our Treats with Functional Ingredients
If you love the benefits of this soup, your pup can enjoy similar functional ingredients in treat form! At BarkiesNGoodies, we offer:
Dried Alligator/ Goji Gator: High-protein, novel meat treat that supports Lung and Kidney Qi.
Cordyceps Flowers : Available in our Just the Good Treat - mushroom to support respiratory health and immunity.
Medicinal Mushrooms (Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane): Carefully cooked and air-dried and blended to nourish Qi, resolve Phlegm, and support overall vitality.
Treat your dog to snacks that are not just tasty, but functional, and incorporate TCM-inspired wellness into daily life.
Shop Our Treats → https://www.barkiesngoodies.com/collections/asian-herbal-treats