Black Mulberry, Wolfberry and Toasted Wheat Tea

Why people make this tea

Dried black mulberries — sometimes labelled as hei sang zao (black mulberry dates) at Chinese herb shops — are a remarkably versatile ingredient: they store easily, can be eaten as a snack, steeped as a tea or added to soups, and concentrate the berry’s notable nutritional profile. Black mulberries are exceptionally rich in anthocyanins and the trace element selenium, both associated with antioxidant protection and the inhibition of cellular damage. In traditional food therapy, they nourish yin, enrich the blood, support the liver and kidneys, and are thought to be particularly beneficial for the eyes and the skin. Paired with wolfberries (arguably the most well-known eye-supporting food-therapy ingredient) and toasted wheat grains (which have a calming, heart-nourishing quality), this tea is a gentle daily ritual for screen workers, those with restless nights or anyone wanting to tend to their eyes and nerves with something pleasant to drink.