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PANguin

Spring · from 20 Mar

Spring Equinox

春分

Balance Yin and Yang, harmonize Qi and Blood.

Next: Clear and Bright on 5 Apr — 16 days

Tailor to a constitution

Lingzhi and red date tea
Spring Equinox · Tea break · Sensitive (Allergic)

Lingzhi and red date tea

Lingzhi slices and red dates simmered into a gently bitter tea with a sweet finish; many Hong Kong homes keep a bag of lingzhi in the cupboard.

  • 50 min
  • Serves 2
  • Simmer
  • Easy
NeutralSupports qi and calmsStrengthens resistance

Why it suits you: Special (allergic) types are most troubled by pollen and big temperature swings around the Spring Equinox. Sweet, neutral lingzhi has long been used to support qi and protective energy and to calm the mind, while red dates and goji nourish the middle and blood without heating.

Method

Prep 5 min · Cook 45 min
  1. 1Rinse the lingzhi and dates, put them in a pot with the water and leave to soak for 15 minutes.
  2. 2Bring to the boil, then simmer gently for 40 minutes.
  3. 3Add the goji for the last 5 minutes, strain and drink warm.

Cautions

  • Pause it if you have a cold or fever, around surgery, or if you take blood-thinning medication.

Chef's tips

  • The lingzhi slices can be simmered a second time; give them a little longer to release their flavour.

The TCM view

Lingzhi is sweet and neutral, supporting qi, calming the mind and easing cough. Red dates are sweet and warm and support qi and blood; goji nourishes the liver and kidneys. Together they support resistance and calm the mind.

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Seasonal principle

Day and night are equal. Maintain balance in all things. Eat seasonal greens to refresh the body and harmonize internal energy. Avoid extreme temperatures in food and environment. Establish a regular sleep schedule to align with the balanced natural rhythms of the season.

In season now

In season around Spring Equinox: Bean Sprouts, Eggs, Wolfberries, Green Tea, Asparagus

Tap an ingredient for its nature, uses and nutrition.

Sensitive (Allergic)

Sensitive and prone to allergies

Enjoy: Simple, balanced home cooking · Chinese yam and red dates · Brown rice and seasonal vegetables

Go easy: Anything you know you react to · Very spicy food · Alcohol

Not sure of your constitution?

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Based on traditional Chinese medicine for general wellness education — not a medical diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, are severe or unusual, please see a doctor or registered Chinese medicine practitioner.