Fresh Houttuynia, Tangerine Peel, and Apricot Kernel Decoction

Why people make this drink

Houttuynia (yu xing cao) — sometimes called fish mint or fish-wort — is a pungent wild herb long used in Chinese folk medicine as one of the primary natural tools for lung and respiratory support. The fresh herb is significantly more active than the dried version, and crucially, it must not be simmered for too long — its beneficial volatile oils dissipate with prolonged cooking. Fresh houttuynia is available at Chinese or Asian grocers and online. Paired with tangerine peel (which warms, helps move phlegm, and counterbalances the herb’s cooling nature) and apricot kernels (which support the lungs), this is a practical, accessible daily drink for anyone looking to support their respiratory health. Those without confirmed illness can also drink it as a precautionary measure.

Method

1. Rinse the fresh houttuynia thoroughly and cut into sections.
2. Rinse the tangerine peel, soak in a little water until slightly softened; keep the soaking liquid to add to the pot.
3. Rinse the apricot kernels and honey dates.
4. Place the tangerine peel (with soaking liquid), apricot kernels, and honey dates in a pot with 1.8 L of water.
5. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a medium simmer and cook for about 5 minutes.
6. Add the fresh houttuynia herb.
7. Continue simmering for 15–20 minutes only — do not overcook beyond 20 minutes or the beneficial volatile oils will be lost.
8. Serve warm.

Nourilo’s Tips

The most important caution with this recipe: do not boil houttuynia for too long. Its therapeutic volatile compounds dissipate with heat. If you are using other ingredients that take longer (such as other herbs or pork), simmer those first for 30–40 minutes, then add the houttuynia in the final 15–20 minutes. If fresh houttuynia is unavailable, dried herb can be used — 38 g (per person) per batch, same 20-minute cooking time. The tangerine peel’s white pith does not need to be scraped off — it contributes to phlegm resolution and softening of blood vessel walls.