Yu Ping Feng (Jade Screen) Herb Congee

Why people make this congee

Yu Ping Feng San — literally “Jade Screen Powder” — is one of the most celebrated classical formulas in Chinese medicine, used for centuries to strengthen what practitioners call the wei qi (protective energy at the body’s surface) and build resilience against repeated colds and infections. Nourilo recommends adapting this three-herb formula into a mild, child-friendly congee. The herbal flavour is light enough that children accept it readily, and the method is simple: simmer the herbs first, strain out the solids, and use the broth to cook the rice into a smooth congee.

This recipe is particularly relevant for children who tend to fall ill repeatedly, for anyone whose constitution has been weakened by prolonged exposure to airborne irritants, or simply for people who want to strengthen their immunity heading into the colder months. Adults can also use the commercially available Yu Ping Feng granules directly.

Method

1. Rinse all three herbs briefly.
2. Place the herbs in a pot with 1.8 L of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 20 minutes until the liquid reduces to 1.2–1.5 L.
3. Strain out and discard the herb solids. Keep the herbal broth.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the herbal broth. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until a smooth, moderately thick congee forms (roughly 30 minutes).
5. Serve warm. Children can eat a child-appropriate portion; the whole family can share.

Nourilo’s Tips

If measuring and boiling herbs feels like too much effort for a busy household, commercially available Yu Ping Feng granule sachets are a good convenience option. Simply dissolve about 2 teaspoons of the granule powder into a bowl of hot congee and stir well — the effect is essentially the same. Children from 18 months can use the granule version, dissolved in hot water. One to two servings per week is the recommended dose for ongoing immune support. Adults can take the granules directly without making congee. Adding 6 dried magnolia flower buds (xin yi hua) makes it also helpful for nasal allergy.