Yu Ping Feng San — Jade Windscreen Powder Decoction

Why people make this tea

Yu Ping Feng San — “Jade Windscreen Powder” — is one of the most storied formulas in classical Chinese medicine, designed to build what practitioners call wei qi (defensive energy at the body’s surface). The name evokes a jade screen standing between you and the wind: a subtle but sturdy shield. People who catch colds easily, look pale, feel chronically tired, or sweat without exertion are the classic candidates. Nourilo recommends this formula especially for children who get sick every time the weather changes, and for adults who feel run-down through a long cold season.

Method

1. Rinse the herbs briefly.
2. Combine all three herbs in a pot with 2.4 L of water. If using red dates, add them now.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 30 minutes, until the liquid reduces to about 1.2 L.
4. Strain and serve warm. If using honey for children, add it to each cup after cooling slightly.
5. Frequency: up to 3 times per week during cold and flu season.

Convenient alternative: Many Chinese pharmacies and wellness shops sell Yu Ping Feng San as a ready-made granule or powder (ke li / chong ji). Brands such as Nong Ben Fang (农本方) are widely available. Adults: dissolve about 10 g (approximately 2 teaspoons) per serving in hot water. Children around 5 years old: about 5 g. Take between meals. Stop during any active cold or fever and resume once fully recovered.

Nourilo’s Tips

For children who find the flavour strong, boiling 8–12 red dates in water for 30 minutes and then using that sweet date water to dissolve the powder works beautifully — dates also have anti-allergy properties that complement the formula. When making from raw herbs, those with a drug-free, hormone-free supply tend to find better results. If you want to add xin yi hua (magnolia buds) to help with nasal allergy, simply add 6 flowers to the pot or steep them in hot water alongside the granules.