How to Brew Chinese Medicinal Tea

Herbs have been used for centuries by the Chinese as primary treatments for all types of illnesses. Today, traditional Chinese medicine is practiced all over the world. The tried and true ancient remedies that employ a creative and knowledgeable use of herbs are often just as effective and sometimes safer than modern medicine. There are hundreds of herbs that are regularly employed in traditional Chinese medicine and it's always best to consult a trained professional before attempting to treat a serious illness or complicated set of symptoms. For simple concerns, brew teas with Chinese herbs to relieve aches, pains and anxiety.

Instructions

1. Identify the physical ailment or set of ailments you wish to treat.

2. Consult a professional practitioner of traditional Chinese medicine for guidance as to which herb or combination of herbs works best as a tea to relieve your symptoms. In lieu of a professional, consult an encyclopedia of Chinese medicine or log onto the Internet and do your own research as to which herbs are traditionally used to treat the symptoms you have.

3. Obtain the herbs you need either from a health food store, from a licensed herbalist or order the herbs online. Find commonly-used Chinese herbs at your local Asian food market.

4. Brew medicinal tea from the herbs you selected. Place the recommended amount of herbs into a glass or ceramic cooking pot. Add water until the herbs are covered. Cover the pot and let the herbs soak overnight.

5. Add more water if necessary to make sure the herbs are covered. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the herbs simmer for 30 minutes. This is your first batch of tea.

6. Strain the tea into a glass container. Replace the herbs. Add more water to cover them. Bring the herbs and water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes.

7. Pour the second batch of tea into the same glass container with the first batch and discard the used herbs.

8. Drink only the prescribed or recommended amount at one time and wait until the tea has cooled to a tepid temperature. Drink the tea without any additives such as honey, sugar, milk or creamer. These substances will interfere with the medicinal properties of the herbs.

9. Keep your brewed tea in the refrigerator and heat your next dose to a tepid temperature before drinking. Do not let the tea come to a boil.

Tips & Warnings

• The following are a few of the herbs traditionally brewed into medicinal teas and the ailments they address. Chrysanthemum reduces fever and aids in the prevention of liver damage; Lemon grass calms the mind and body; Catnip calms the mind and body; Ginger eases cold symptoms, flu symptoms, menstrual cramps and nausea; Rosemary eases cold symptoms, headaches, stimulates the liver and improves circulation; Licorice root eases coughs, sore throat, menstrual pains and aids in digestion; Ginseng energizes the body; Thyme has antiseptic properties, eases sore throats and coughs, and improves the immune system; Rose hips and hibiscus are often brewed together to ease headaches; Sage calms, improves digestion and relieves coughs and congestion.

• Herbs are often used in various combinations to increase the tea's effectiveness. Follow the instructions you receive from your licensed practitioner, Chinese apothecary or encyclopedia of Chinese medicine when using more than one herb at a time.