American Ginseng and Goji Tea

Why people make this tea

A friend from overseas gave Nourilo a jar of American ginseng slices, noting they are traditionally associated with supporting qi and nourishing yin — tonifying without being drying — and well suited to people who are stressed, often up late, and easily irritable. As Nourilo recalls from a professor, good-quality American ginseng is something middle-aged and older folks can enjoy regularly as a tea, traditionally associated with graceful aging and a sharp mind. Add the goji he keeps on hand — traditionally associated with protecting the eyes — and you get a cup that clears the liver, brightens the eyes, and helps you push back against fatigue.

Method

1. Put the American ginseng and goji in a teapot.
2. Rinse once with boiling water and pour it off.
3. Refill with boiling water and steep, covered, for 5 minutes.
4. Drink, refilling until the tea runs pale.

Nourilo’s Tips

American ginseng from the US and Canada tends to be best quality. Some sellers pass off water-ginseng (shui shen) as the real thing — a genuine slice tastes sweet and quickly makes the mouth water; a slightly bitter, fishy slice that doesn’t is likely a fake, so buy from a reputable shop. This tea traditionally suits people with excess deficiency-heat or yin-deficiency fire, clearing the heart and easing restlessness and fatigue.