He Shou Wu Red Date Sweet Tea

Why people make this tea

In traditional Chinese food therapy, he shou wu has long been regarded as one of the classic herbs for supporting healthy-looking skin and dark, glossy hair — the kind your grandmother might have sworn by. Paired with the gentle sweetness of red dates and candied dates, this three-ingredient tea is easy to prepare and pleasant to drink. Nourilo notes that regular, moderate use is traditionally associated with a rosy complexion, shiny hair, and may be supportive of healthy blood lipid levels.

Method

1. Soak the he shou wu briefly in cold water, then rinse clean.
2. Remove the pits from the red dates.
3. Place all ingredients in a clay or ceramic pot with 8 cups (approx. 2 litres) of water.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer and cook for about 2 hours, until the liquid reduces to 3–4 cups.
5. Serve warm. The tea is lightly sweet on its own; adjust sweetness with a little rock sugar if preferred.

Nourilo’s Tips

Buy red dates with pits — they are the genuine article. The pitted dates sold at many convenience stores are often dried residue from processed date tea or date crystals with little therapeutic value. Once pitted, store the dates in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. This tea is traditionally associated with helping to lower blood lipids, and may also be supportive of arterial health.