Mulberry Mistletoe, Red Date and Mulberry-Fruit Tea

Why people make this tea

Cramps have many causes — poor peripheral circulation, cold exposure, overexertion, anemia. In winter the cold makes older legs cramp at night, while in summer, sleeping under air-conditioning can chill the feet and trigger cramps too. Nourilo suggests warm socks or a warm-water foot soak before bed, and watching for low calcium, potassium, sodium or magnesium. This gentle tea is traditionally used to support the liver and kidneys and strengthen the sinews.

Method

1. Rinse the mistletoe and other ingredients; pit the red dates.
2. Combine all ingredients with 1.8 L of water.
3. Cook for 40 minutes, reducing to 900 ml.

Nourilo’s Tips

The mistletoe pictured is the steamed (prepared) type, which gives a less bitter, less astringent brew; if you cannot find it, ordinary mistletoe works too. This tea is lightly fragrant with little herbal taste. Beyond easing cramps, it is traditionally said to nourish the blood and complexion, suitable for young and old.