Astragalus, Rehmannia and Cinnamon Twig Broth

Why people make this broth

Chronically cold hands and feet are a common complaint, especially in women who are naturally slender, have been through periods of restrictive eating, or are in later life. In Chinese medicine, this condition is often associated with an insufficiency of qi and blood — the body simply does not have enough warmth-generating energy to circulate adequately to the extremities. Men can experience this too, particularly older men or those with chronic illness. The approach in Chinese food therapy is not simply to “add heat,” but to nourish the blood, support qi, and gently warm the meridians so that circulation can improve on its own. This is what this broth does.

Beyond cold limbs, this formula is also traditionally associated with supporting menstrual regularity and easing period pain — particularly in women whose cycles feel sluggish or uncomfortable in cold weather. Soaking feet in warm water before bed is a simple daily complement that can further support the warmth-generating effect.