Herbal & Flower Teas
Astragalus Red Date Roasted Barley Tea
Traditionally used to clear summer heat, reduce excessive sweating, and replenish qi
Why people make this tea
Summer heat drains the body. Even without physical exertion, hot and humid weather can cause heavy sweating, fatigue, and a general sense of depletion — particularly in children and older adults whose reserves are thinner. This three-ingredient tea addresses this pattern directly: roasted barley provides gentle, grain-based nourishment with a warm, slightly nutty aroma and no caffeine or tannins, making it soothing rather than stimulating. Astragalus root adds its well-known qi-tonifying and surface-consolidating properties, helping the body retain its fluids rather than losing them through excessive perspiration. Red date, in its sliced form to release flavour quickly, contributes natural sweetness and blood-building support. Together the three make a drink that is fragrant, pleasant, easy to prepare, and genuinely restorative — an ideal companion at the office, at the park, or anywhere the summer heat is challenging.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable for most people; especially beneficial for children, the elderly, and those who perspire heavily or tire easily in summer heat.
- This tea contains no caffeine, no stimulants, and has a mild nature — suitable between meals or as a regular daily drink.
- Can be made as a brewed drink (simmered) or packed into a tea bag for steeping on the go.
- People with an acute fever or active infection should hold off on qi-tonifying preparations until fully recovered.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Astragalus root (bei qi): One of the most important tonifying herbs in Chinese food therapy. Traditionally associated with building qi, consolidating the body’s surface to prevent excessive fluid loss through sweating, and supporting immune resilience. It is mild enough for regular daily use.
- Red dates (hong zao): Rich in natural sugars, dietary fibre, and micronutrients. In Chinese food therapy, traditionally associated with nourishing the blood, supporting spleen and stomach function, and providing calm, sustained energy. Slicing or pitting them before use helps release flavour more quickly when brewing.
- Roasted barley (chao xiang da mai): A whole grain with a clean, toasty aroma when roasted. Traditionally associated with clearing summer heat, benefiting stomach qi, and generating body fluids. Unlike green or black tea, it contains no caffeine — making it a calming, sleep-friendly option for any time of day.
Ingredients (2 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Astragalus root slices (bei qi) | 1 tablespoon | Available pre-sliced at Chinese herbal shops |
| Red date slices (hong zao) | 1 tablespoon | Pitted and sliced; or use 3–4 whole pitted dates |
| Roasted barley (chao xiang da mai) | 1 tablespoon | Available at large supermarkets |
| Water | 3 bowls (~750 ml) |
Method
- Rinse all ingredients briefly.
- Place the astragalus, red date slices, and roasted barley into a small pot with 3 bowls of water.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes until about 2 bowls remain.
- Strain and drink warm. The same ingredients can also be packed into a tea bag and steeped in boiling water for a convenient on-the-go version.
Bro Niu’s tips
Roasted barley (炒香大麦) is available at most large supermarkets — look for it near the cereals or health food section. This tea has a naturally sweet, toasty flavour that most people find very easy to drink. For an even more convenient version, place the ingredients into a reusable tea bag and bring it in a thermos to work or school — just pour boiling water over it and let it steep. Best enjoyed between meals rather than during.
Published July 17, 2019 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.
