Tonic Drinks & Waters
Apple, Poria and Job's Tears Water
Traditionally used to support gut health and ease calf cramps
Why people make this drink
Most people know Job’s tears for reducing water retention, but Bro Niu points out it also contains plant compounds traditionally associated with relaxing the muscles. So if your calves tend to cramp at night, it is worth eating Job’s tears more often. This light apple, poria and Job’s tears water supports gut health and is a good fit for anyone whose calves cramp when the weather or their feet turn cold.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Those whose calves cramp at night or when chilled; gentle for young and old, and suitable for people managing high blood pressure, blood sugar or cholesterol.
- Job’s tears (yi mi) is not recommended during pregnancy.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Job’s tears (yi mi): traditionally drains dampness, and contains compounds associated with relaxing the muscles.
- Poria (fu ling): traditionally supports the spleen and drains dampness, a gentle and well-tolerated ingredient.
- Apple: lends a clean fragrance and is traditionally said to support the stomach.
Ingredients (3 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | 2 | Wash, leave skin on, core and chunk |
| Poria (fu ling) | ~19 g | Soak and rinse |
| Job’s tears (yi mi) | ~38 g | Soak and rinse |
Method
- Wash the apples with skin on, then core and cut into chunks.
- Soak and rinse the poria and Job’s tears.
- Combine everything with 5 bowls of water and boil for 20 minutes down to about 3 bowls.
Bro Niu’s tips
This water is light but fragrant, good for young and old, and a fine fit for those managing the “three highs.” But Job’s tears is not for use during pregnancy.
Community questions answered (selected)
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Q (anonymous): I want to make this for my mum. She already has the “three highs,” and every morning both her calves cramp. What is the cause, and what food therapy helps? Bro Niu: Older folks often cramp because of low calcium. So include calcium-rich foods day to day — a tofu and fresh fish soup, for example, is a good one.
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Q (Sun): My mother has dementia, gets irritable, feels tired all the time and wants to sleep. What soup suits her and could lift her spirits? Bro Niu: Try ~38 g each of yam, lotus seed and lily bulb, ~11 g each of goji and mai dong, and 5 red or black dates, simmered with lean pork for 2 hours; the whole family can drink it. It traditionally supports digestion, calms the mind and eases fatigue.
Published November 18, 2025 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
