Tag: Tonic

Cold and Fever Tonic

Tonics are generally not recommended in acute disease. This tonic is meant to be taken at the onset of symptoms and repeated every few hours until symptoms abate. It is very safe for children and adults.

  • 4   tablespoons spearmint leaves

  • 1   tablespoon yarrow flowers

  • 1   tablespoon basil or elder flowers

  • 1   tablespoon lemon balm leaves

In 2 cups of boiled water, steep the above herbs for 15 minutes, covered. Strain and serve warm or cool. Drink half a cup at a time.

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Clear Skin Tonic

Schizandra was popular with the wealthy Chinese and royalty as a radiant skin tonic. It protects the skin from sun and wind exposure, and is used in many aphrodisiac tonics. It is also known to be mildly sedative.

1/2  cup schizandra berries

1/2  cup jujube red dates

1       piece licorice or ginger root

Soak schizandra berries immersed in water overnight; drain and combine with 4 cups of fresh water, jujube red dates, and licorice or ginger root. Simmer, covered, 15 – 20 minutes. Sip on cup daily.

Shoulder and Neck Relaxing Tonic

This tonic will ease tension and anxiety and take the edge off a bad day. Use it as a sleep tonic:

3 cups distilled water

2 small tang kuei roots (or 1 large slice)

2 jujube red dates

4 (2-inch) slices white peony root

1 slice fresh ginger or 1 dried Chinese licorice root

In distilled water, simmer the above ingredients. A ginseng cooker or porcelain pot and lid make the best cooking utensils. Simmer for one hour without lifting the lid. Strain and drink 1/2 – 1 cup to relieve tension.