Astragalus Goji Ophiopogon Tea

Why people make this tea

There is a familiar saying in Chinese: young people cannot wake up, old people cannot fall asleep. Yet the reverse — older adults who become excessively sleepy during the day — is also common, and the causes can be varied. Some relate to circulation, some to medication side effects, some to thyroid or mood-related conditions, and some simply to the natural decline in vital energy (qi) and nourishment of the liver and kidneys that traditional Chinese medicine associates with ageing. Nourilo’s first recommendation is always to see a doctor when a new pattern of daytime sleepiness appears in an older person. But for those whose sleepiness appears related to general age-related decline — dizziness, ringing in the ears, thirst, low energy — this simple daily tea is a practical and well-regarded food-therapy support.

Method

1. Place all three ingredients in a teapot or large mug.
2. Pour in a little boiling water, rinse briefly, and discard the first water.
3. Add fresh boiling water and steep for 10 minutes before drinking.
4. Refill with hot water and continue steeping until the flavour is spent.
5. Alternatively: simmer the ingredients in 900 ml of water for 7–8 minutes, then pour and drink.
6. Drink 3–4 times per week as a health-maintenance tea.

Nourilo’s Tips

Pre-cut astragalus slices are easiest for steeping. If you only have whole astragalus root, use 2 pieces, cut or snip them shorter so they release more flavour. This tea is also traditionally associated with supporting blood sugar regulation — making it a practical daily drink for those managing or seeking to prevent diabetes. The three ingredients together create a mild, pleasant flavour that is easy to maintain as a daily habit.