Herbal & Flower Teas
Black Goji and Dried Longan Tea
Traditionally used to nourish qi and blood and support a robust constitution
Why people make this tea
A friend brought me back a jar of black goji from her travels, and the colour it gives off in the cup is genuinely beautiful. Black goji is sometimes called “soft gold” — it is rich in anthocyanins and other antioxidant compounds, and is traditionally valued for nourishing qi and blood and building a sturdier constitution. I add a handful of dried longan for a clean, sweet flavour; longan is traditionally associated with nourishing the heart and spleen and calming the mind.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Anyone who enjoys a gentle, naturally sweet daily tea and wants everyday support for vitality.
- Use warm rather than boiling water — and as with any sweet tonic, those watching sugar intake can keep longan modest.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Black goji (hei gou qi zi): Rich in anthocyanins; traditionally used to support qi, blood and a robust constitution.
- Dried longan (yuan rou): Traditionally used to nourish the heart and spleen, nourish the blood and calm the spirit.
Ingredients (1 pot)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Black goji (hei gou qi zi) | 1 tablespoon | Do not use boiling water |
| Dried longan (yuan rou) | 15 pieces | |
| Warm water | to fill | Re-steep until pale |
Method
- Place the black goji and dried longan in a pot and rinse once with warm water.
- Pour in warm water and let steep for about 10 minutes before drinking.
- Re-steep until the colour fades.
Bro Niu’s tips
The anthocyanins in black goji can be damaged by very hot water, so brew with warm water rather than boiling. Taken regularly, it is traditionally said to strengthen the constitution and help fend off chills and colds.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (reader): I have uterine fibroids — what can I cook to replenish my body after my period? Bro Niu: With fibroids, go easy on hormone-rich foods. After your period you can make a “four reds” soup — red beans, red-skinned peanuts, goji and red dates, each in suitable amount; savoury (with meat) or sweet (with rock or brown sugar), both work.
Published November 20, 2024 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
