Astragalus, Mai Dong, Goji, Red Date and Apple Tea

Why people make this tea

Nourilo recalls that during the SARS epidemic, a professor urged students to brew immune-supporting teas to lower the chance of infection. The professor explained that most tonic herbs are traditionally regarded as supporting immunity; since many people don’t know whether their constitution is cold, hot, deficient or excess, it is wise to choose milder, balanced tonic herbs. Astragalus, goji and red dates are among the gentlest, so back then Nourilo brewed these three for his family daily. Here he adds mai dong and apple for a clearer, sweeter taste that is traditionally associated with generating fluids, moistening the lungs and supporting immunity — good for those with a weak constitution who get sick easily.

Method

1. Soak and rinse the herbs separately; pit the red dates.
2. Wash the apples (skin on), remove the cores, and cut into chunks.
3. Boil all ingredients in 2.1 L of water for half an hour, reducing to 0.9–1.2 L. Serve.

Nourilo’s Tips

This tea is clear, sweet and tasty, suitable for young and old. Apples are inexpensive right now; if they are small, use 3 — but the apple cores are mildly toxic and must be removed.