Candied Winter Melon Dampness-Relief Tea

Why people make this tea

The Great Heat solar term (Da Shu) marks the hottest point of the year in southern China, and it is precisely at this time that the body is most susceptible to summer dampness — that heavy, sluggish feeling that settles in and leaves people fatigued and unfocused. In Chinese food therapy, summer heat is seen as carrying a “damp” quality that accumulates in the body. This tea combines a ready-made dampness-relief herb packet with candied winter melon for a comforting, seasonal drink that is traditionally understood to help the body release that dampness and feel lighter and more energetic.

Method

1. Rinse both the herb packet contents and the candied winter melon strips under cold water.
2. Place everything into a pot with 2.4 L of water.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook for about 2 hours until reduced to approximately 1.2 L of liquid.
5. Drink warm or at room temperature. The tea has a mildly sweet, herbal taste.

Variation: You can substitute the candied winter melon with 300–500 g of fresh winter melon. Add 2–3 honey dates (mi zao) to restore a little sweetness.

Nourilo’s Tips

• This tea is most appropriate around the Great Heat and Minor Heat solar terms (mid-July), but it is suitable to drink on any very hot, humid summer day — up to 2–3 times per week during the season.
• When dampness clears from the body, energy levels typically improve and that feeling of afternoon drowsiness lessens.
• If you prefer to use fresh winter melon instead of the candied strips, use about half to 600 g (250–500 g); add honey dates for sweetness.
• Chinese herb materials are best started in cold water — putting them in already-boiling water can seal the surface and reduce how much their beneficial compounds release into the broth.