Two-Winter Syrup (Er Dong Gao)

Why people make this syrup

Both asparagus root and ophiopogon are sweet, cool, moistening foods, and both are traditionally associated with nourishing yin and easing dryness — a classic match for a dry cough with little phlegm. Nourilo notes ophiopogon also settles the stomach and calms the mind, while asparagus root leans toward supporting the kidney and is a touch more cooling. Cooked down together into a smooth syrup, the two are traditionally taken for a dry throat, thirst, restlessness, scanty-phlegm cough and restless sleep.