Codonopsis Poria Angelica Longan Soup

Why people make this soup

Thyroid conditions — especially hypothyroidism — seem to be on the rise, and Nourilo has noticed more and more friends and acquaintances being diagnosed. Among women, an underactive thyroid can affect the menstrual cycle, cause prolonged or heavy bleeding, and lead to persistent tiredness, poor memory, and a general sense of being run-down over time. This soup draws on a classic traditional formula for what Chinese medicine calls “heart-spleen deficiency” — a pattern characterised by worry, poor sleep, palpitations, low energy, and poor appetite. The combination of codonopsis, poria, white atractylodes, angelica, longan, and red dates builds up both qi (vital energy) and blood in a gentle, sustained way. Adding chicken or lamb when cooking turns it from a tea-like broth into a more substantial one-pot meal.

Method

1. Remove the stones from the red dates. Rinse all other ingredients briefly.
2. Combine all ingredients in a pot with 1.8 L of cold water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 1 hour until reduced to about 600 ml.
4. Strain and serve warm. Optional: add a small amount of chicken or lamb when simmering for a more nourishing and filling version.

Nourilo’s Tips

This soup is equally helpful for those who feel chronically anxious, have trouble sleeping, experience heart palpitations, or notice a decline in mental sharpness — it is not limited to thyroid conditions. Do not drink during menstruation. Those with active colds or fever should wait until recovered before resuming. For those managing hypothyroidism who are already on thyroid hormone medication, this soup can be taken 2 doses per week as a supportive measure alongside medical treatment.