Niu Da Li, Sinew-Relaxing Herb, Mulberry Mistletoe and Pig Tail Soup

Why people make this soup

When damp, chilly weather arrives, many people — especially as they get older — start noticing that familiar ache in their knees and lower back, or find their joints stiff in the morning. Nourilo spotted a bundle of wild niu da li root at the Chinese herbal medicine shop, then noticed sinew-relaxing herb and a box of steamed mulberry mistletoe right beside it. The steamed preparation of sang ji sheng is prized because it is gentler in taste yet delivers a fuller nourishing effect. Paired with green-kernel black soybeans, which are traditionally associated with supporting the liver and kidneys, this rich soup has been used in Cantonese households to look after the lower back, knees, and general sinew health.