Magnolia Bud (Xin Yi Hua) & Honey Tea

Why people make this tea

Nourilo once tried a sip of comb honey at a food fair and bought a big jar — it is said to be very kind to those with nasal allergies, rhinitis or throat discomfort. In the old days, many practitioners suggested those with chronic rhinitis or pharyngitis sip a cup of comb-honey tea morning and night. Here it is paired with magnolia buds (xin yi hua), a classic herb traditionally used to open the nasal passages — helpful for a cold-type headache, a blocked nose and clear runny mucus.

Method

1. Snip the magnolia buds open and place in a teapot; rinse once with boiling water.
2. Pour in fresh boiling water and steep, covered, for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the honey and enjoy.

Nourilo’s Tips

If you don’t have comb honey, ordinary pure honey works fine. This tea suits young and old — but pregnant women should not drink herbal flower teas.