Autumn is getting stronger, a cup of chrysanthemum tea nourishes the body and mind
As autumn winds blow, the air becomes dry and slightly cool. Many people feel dry mouth, tight skin, and sore throat - this is commonly known as "autumn dryness." Traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes adapting to the four seasons for health. At this time, drinking a mild cup of chrysanthemum tea is a time-honored herbal wisdom. Chrysanthemum has a slightly cold nature and a sweet and bitter taste, which can clear heat, moisten dryness, soothe the liver, and improve eyesight. Drinking a cup every day not only relieves autumn fatigue but also gradually makes the body softer.
Medicinal and food sources: Why is chrysanthemum a good companion in autumn?
In the concept of traditional Chinese medicine, "medicinal and food sources are the same," meaning many foods are naturally gentle调理佳品. Chrysanthemum is one of them. Unlike strong cold medicines, it gently dispels wind-heat and clears the head and eyes. During the dry autumn season, people are prone to irritability and emotional agitation. Chrysanthemum tea can help "cool down" without harming the spleen and stomach. Especially common varieties like Hangbai chrysanthemum and Gongju, when brewed, produce a sweet and mellow tea that can be consumed by both the elderly and children.
How to brew chrysanthemum tea for better effects
Brewing a qualified cup of chrysanthemum tea is not complicated, but several small details can enhance the nourishing effects:
- Selection: Take 5-8 dried chrysanthemums (Hangbai or Taiju chrysanthemum is best), and a small piece of rock sugar or honey (optional).
- Brewing: Use water at around 90°C (just boiled and slightly cooled down), pour into the cup, cover it, and let it steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Complement: You can add a few goji berries to enhance the effect of eye protection and moistening dryness; or add a slice of tangerine peel to help regulate the middle jiao and promote qi circulation and strengthen the spleen.
Drink a cup in the afternoon or after dinner, with the temperature being warm, not too cold. After maintaining for one or two weeks, you will feel your throat more comfortable, your skin less tight, and your whole body more peaceful.
Gentle regulation, remember two principles
Although chrysanthemum tea is good, it should also follow the body's condition. If your hands and feet are cold and you are prone to diarrhea, it indicates that your spleen and stomach are cold and weak. In this case, you can reduce the amount of chrysanthemum and add a few red dates or slices of ginger to balance it. Additionally, since autumn dryness regulation focuses on "moisture," besides drinking tea, drinking more warm water and eating less spicy food will have better results. Remember: health preservation is a gentle companion, not a heavy supplement. It is most effective to take it slowly.
Summary
Drinking a cup of chrysanthemum tea every day is the simplest and gentlest autumn ritual in traditional Chinese medicine. It gently helps the body relieve dryness and allows people to find balance within the natural rhythm. From today on, brew yourself a cup of chrysanthemum tea and experience that refreshing and tranquil feeling from the herbs.