Kit Li
Today represents the Vernal Eqinox (春分), the second solar term in the traditional 24 Solar Terms (二十四節氣).
Resulting from the growth in the nature during Spring, the yang energy rises, in a similar way, the liver yang energy in the human body also strengthens. Excessive Liver Yang or Liver-Qi Stagnation can lead to imbalance with Liver-yin, as a result, the function of Spleen and Stomach may get further affect, causing various discomforts.
It is advisable to increase the intake of green leafy vegetables, as they offer significant nutritional benefits that support overall well-being. We can also make some healthy teas for daily consumption to help with balancing, blood regulation and emotions, primarily benefiting to Liver.
1) Red Bean (Hong dou) and Coix Seed (Yi Yi Ren) Water: Both Red Bean and Coix Seed are nutrient-rich and have diuretic and dampness eliminating effects. Coix Seed has a slightly cold nature, slightly roasted is highly recommended before cooking.
Ingredients: Red Bean (50g), Coix Seed (30g), Water (1000ml)
Preparation Method: Slightly roasted the herbs and soaked them in water for about 1 hour. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently for about 5-10 minutes, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, turn off the heat.
2) Goji Berries (Goujizi) and Prepared Rehmannia (ShuDiHuang) Tea: Goji Berries has a mild nature, it nourishes Yin and tonify Blood, also it improves our visions. Dried Rehmannia benefits of nourishing Yin and Blood, as well as invigorates the Liver and Kidney, which is good for Yin deficiency conditions.
Ingredients: Goji Berries (2g), Dried Rehmannia (5g), Water (500ml)
Preparation Method: Chopped the Dried Rehmannia into smaller pieces, bring the water to a boil, add the herbs, simmers for 5 minutes and turn off the heat with the lid on for another 10 minutes.
3) Goji Berries (Goujizi) and Chrysanthemum (Juhua) Tea: this tea recognised for its ability to nourish the Liver, clears heat and benefits vision; besides, it calms the mind and improves sleep. Apart from that, it helps with other conditions too, such as stabilising the blood pressure level at the very early stage diagnosed of high blood pressure.*
Ingredients: Goji Berries (10g), Chrysanthemum (10g), Water (500ml)
Cooking Method: put two herbs into a flask and top up with boiling water, soak for 15minutes with the lid on, then ready to drink.
4) Semen Cassiae (Jue Ming Zi) and Barely Sprout (Maiya) Tea: Semen Cassiae has a mild cold nature, it is recommended to use slightly roasted Semen Cassiae in this receipt, it clears heat, benefits vision and nourishes the intestines; Barely Sprout helps with indigestion and regulating Liver-qi stagnation.
Ingredients: Semen Cassiae (30g), Barely Sprout (120g), Water (5000ml)
Preparation Method: Firstly, bring water to a boil, reduce to low heat, then add the above herbs and simmers for 15 minutes. Turn off the heat, cover the pot and leave it for 30 minutes.*
These healthy teas supports overall well-being, but for specific conditions, please consult a qualified Chinese Practitioner. Hope you enjoy the teas and keep yourself well physically and emotionally in the Spring.
References:
GoJi Berry and Chrysanthemum Tea:
https://chinesemedicinesalon.blogspot.com/2011/12/metabolic-syndrome-and-its-tcm-food.html
Semen Cassiae and Barely Sprout Tea:
https://youtu.be/zSsv0hONgkI?si=ALwF7UKSdeQCf62L
