Fresh Cogongrass Root and Corn Silk Tea

Why people make this tea

Abdominal obesity is one of the main drivers of fatty liver — the fat cells around the belly are particularly active, flooding the liver with fatty acids and causing fat to accumulate. Common signs that traditional Chinese food therapy associates with this pattern include easy hunger, bloating, constipation, fatigue, afternoon sleepiness, and a feeling of heaviness. This two-ingredient tea is wonderfully simple: fresh cogongrass root (a grass whose white root is used in southern Chinese cooking and medicine) paired with the silky threads from inside a corn husk — things that might otherwise be discarded. Together they make a lightly fragrant tea that is associated in traditional practice with clearing damp-heat, supporting the liver and gallbladder, reducing water retention, and gently lowering blood pressure. Nourilo notes it is suitable for the whole family, including young children.

Method

1. Rinse the cogongrass root and cut it into sections.
2. Rinse the corn silk.
3. Place both ingredients in a pot with 1.5 L of water.
4. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes until reduced to 600–900 ml.
5. Drink in portions throughout the day.

Nourilo’s Tips

• This tea has a clean, pleasant fragrance and is mild enough for the whole family — young and old alike.
• It is also helpful for children with scanty dark urine, mild nephritis-related edema, diabetes management support, and high blood pressure.
• For ongoing support, Nourilo suggests drinking 3 portions per week; it is gentle enough for regular use.
• Those with frequent night urination or a cold, weak stomach should be cautious — this tea promotes fluid excretion.