Herbal & Flower Teas
American Ginseng, Goji Berry and Ophiopogon Tea
traditionally associated with nourishing yin, clearing heat, and supporting kidney and lung health
Why people make this tea
If you regularly stay up past midnight — whether for work, study, or caregiving — you may notice familiar signs of what traditional Chinese food therapy calls “yin deficiency”: a persistently dry mouth, a throat that feels parched no matter how much water you drink, gums that feel slightly swollen or tender, or the occasional mouth ulcer. This gentle three-ingredient tea addresses exactly those symptoms. American ginseng is mild yet effective, goji berries add a natural sweetness and colour, and ophiopogon root provides the deep moistening action that makes this tea genuinely refreshing. It is light enough to drink regularly and simple enough to prepare on a busy evening.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suited to those who regularly work or study at night and experience dry mouth, mild gum tenderness, or mild mouth ulcers from what traditional practice describes as “deficient heat”
- Also traditionally beneficial for those with dry eyes, loose teeth, or gums that feel receded
- American ginseng has a mild stimulating effect; best consumed before evening (morning or early afternoon is ideal) to avoid interfering with sleep
- Those with a cold, phlegmy constitution or weak digestion may find this tea too cool in nature; a practitioner of Chinese medicine can advise
- Suitable during menstruation, according to Bro Niu’s own guidance
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- American ginseng (hua qi shen / Panax quinquefolius): Milder and more cooling than Asian ginseng, traditionally used to tonify qi, generate fluids, and clear heat. It has a subtle bitter-sweet taste and a gentle energising effect.
- Ophiopogon root (mai dong): One of the key yin-nourishing herbs in Chinese food therapy, traditionally used to moisten the lungs and stomach, generate saliva, and ease thirst and dryness.
- Goji berries (gou qi zi): A gentle tonic traditionally associated with nourishing liver and kidney, supporting eye health, and supplementing blood. They also lend natural sweetness to the tea.
Ingredients (2 cups)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| American ginseng (hua qi shen) | ~11 g (3 qian) | Thin slices are easiest to use |
| Ophiopogon root (mai dong) | ~11 g (3 qian) | Rinse before use |
| Goji berries (gou qi zi) | ~19 g (5 qian) | Rinse gently |
| Rock sugar | to taste | Add at the end |
| Water | 4 bowls (~960 ml) |
Method
- Rinse the ophiopogon root and goji berries briefly under cool water.
- Combine the ophiopogon root, goji berries, and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 40 minutes.
- Add the American ginseng slices and rock sugar. Simmer for a further 3 minutes — do not cook ginseng for too long or the volatile aromatic compounds dissipate.
- Strain or drink as is. The goji berries and ginseng slices can be eaten.
Alternative — thermos infusion: Place all ingredients in a thermos flask. Pour over boiling water and seal. Infuse for 15 minutes before drinking. Refill with hot water as needed until the flavour fades. This is a convenient option for desk or office use.
Bro Niu’s tips
- Because American ginseng has a mild energy-boosting effect, drinking this tea earlier in the day (morning to early afternoon) is preferable to avoid any interference with your evening sleep.
- If you prefer, you can swap American ginseng for Chinese codonopsis (dang shen), which is warmer in nature and gives a more tonifying, slightly richer flavour. Simply steep thin slices in the same way.
- This tea is especially comforting in winter — the goji berries turn the liquid a beautiful amber-red.
Community questions answered (selected)
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Q (reader): Can this tea be drunk during menstruation? Bro Niu: Yes, it is fine to drink during your period.
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Q (Yi): Does American ginseng give an energy boost? Should it only be drunk in the daytime? Bro Niu: Yes, American ginseng does have a mild energising effect, so it is better to drink this tea in the morning or before dinner rather than late at night.
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Q (Mei): Can this tea be made in a thermos flask instead of cooking it? Bro Niu: Absolutely. Simply infuse all the ingredients in boiling water in a thermos for about 15 minutes and drink.
Published December 7, 2011 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.
