This year, the shortest day of the year in terms of daylight (the winter solstice in the astronomical sense) is on December 21st, and it typically corresponds to Dongzhi (冬至) (1) in the Traditional Chinese Calendar’s 24 Solar Terms. It is one of the most important traditional festivals in China and other East Asian cultures. It marks the peak of yin and the gradual return of yang, so many customs focus on family, nourishment, and welcoming the increase of light.
Dongzhi is not just an astronomical marker, it’s also a seasonal transition point that emphasizes rest, inward nourishment, and replenishment of yang after strengthening yin through the autumn and early winter. Foods and practices during this time historically lean toward warming, nutrient-dense, and qi-nourishing preparations to support the body through the darkest, coldest period.
I'm going to introduce one of the drinks, Winter Solstice Scallion Sichuan Pepper Water (Cong Bai Hua Jiao Drink), this warming herbal drink is used to dispel cold, warm yang, promote circulation, and protect the lungs. It is especially suitable around the Winter Solstice, when yin is strongest and yang begins to rise, also it benefits for:
- dispels external cold and mild internal cold
- promotes sweating and releases the exterior (early-stage wind-cold)
- warms the lungs, helps relieve cough and mild wheezing
- improves circulation, warms hands and feet
- supports seasonal immunity and adaption to cold weather
Here are the ingredients:
- White radish: 200g
- Scallion whites (with roots): 2 stalks
- Ginger (with skin): 2 slices
- Sichuan peppercorns: 3 grains
- Pitted Red dates: 3 pieces
- Goji berries: 10 pieces
- Water: 500 ml
Cooking method:
- Bring to a rolling boil on high heat (about 10 minutes).
Reduce to low heat and simmer 15–20 minutes.
- Avoid overcooking to prevent loss of aroma and active components.
- Yin deficiency with strong heat (dry mouth, night sweats, red tongue)
- Fever, sore throat, yellow phlegm
- Pregnancy (use with caution due to strong warming and moving nature)|
- People with High Blood Pressure, reduce the quantity of Sichuan peppercorns (1-3g) and ginger (1 slice)
- People with Diabetes, reduce or skip the quantity of pitted Red dates (1pc) and keep goji berries (5-8 pcs)
Winter Solstice customs vary in China and other East Asian cultures, but the shared theme is warmth, nourishment, and family gathering. Scallion pepper water is a practical, everyday health drink rather than a ceremonial ritual. This is a useful seasonal remedy, not a daily tonic. It works best when used briefly, at the right time, for the right person. It also fits the Winter Solstice principle of 'One Yang is Born' (一阳生), supporting the body’s rising yang energy. For modern people who sit long hours, get cold easily, and lack circulation, it can be very effective, but overuse or misuse can easily lead to internal heat. Balance and timing matter more than quantity.
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