Mulberry Leaf, Chrysanthemum & Reed Root Tea

Why people make this tea

In traditional Chinese food therapy, colds and respiratory infections are divided into two patterns: “wind-cold” (chills, clear runny nose, no fever or thirst) and “wind-heat” (mild fever, sore or dry throat, slight thirst). If you tend to run warm — your throat gets scratchy or dry after eating a little spicy or fried food — you fall into the heat-leaning category, and this tea was designed for you. Mulberry leaf, chrysanthemum, and reed root are all gently cooling herbs that work together to ease throat dryness and support the body when a wind-heat cold is brewing.

Method

1. Rinse all ingredients briefly.
2. Place the rinsed herbs in a small saucepan with 750 ml of water.
3. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 10 minutes until reduced to approximately 300 ml.
4. Pour into a cup and drink warm. A small amount of honey may be added if desired.

Nourilo’s Tips

This is a light, pleasantly fragrant tea that is suitable for both adults and older children. It is also a good choice for anyone whose eyes are red or have visible blood vessels — the combination of mulberry leaf and chrysanthemum is especially valued for eye-related heat symptoms. Note: people with a cold spleen-stomach constitution should not use this tea.