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PANguin

Spring · from 5 Mar

Awakening of Insects

驚蟄

Soothe the Liver, nourish Yin.

Next: Spring Equinox on 20 Mar — 15 days

Tailor to a constitution

Green plum blossom honey tea
Awakening of Insects · Tea break · Qi Stagnation

Green plum blossom honey tea

Delicately scented green plum blossoms infused into a hot tea with a little honey, to sip slowly when you feel tense.

  • 8 min
  • Serves 2
  • Infuse
  • Easy
NeutralSoothes the liverHarmonises the middle

Why it suits you: Qi-stagnant types feel irritable and tight-chested and sigh a lot as liver qi rises at Awakening of Insects. Green plum blossom soothes the liver, eases stagnation and settles the stomach, and its light floral scent helps you unwind.

Method

Prep 3 min · Cook 5 min
  1. 1Give the blossoms a quick rinse.
  2. 2Put them in a teapot, pour over the hot water, cover and infuse for 5 minutes.
  3. 3Pour out and add honey once slightly cooled; the blossoms can be infused a second time.

Chef's tips

  • Chinese herbal shops sell green plum blossom; store it in an airtight jar.

The TCM view

Green plum blossom is slightly sour, astringent and neutral, soothing the liver, harmonising the middle and resolving phlegm, especially for liver and stomach qi stagnation. Honey is sweet and neutral and eases tension. Together they relieve stagnation and settle the stomach.

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  • For Qi Stagnation
  • Right for Awakening of Insects
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Seasonal principle

The weather warms and Liver fire can rise. Pears are excellent for moistening the throat and clearing heat. Stay hydrated and avoid staying up late. Incorporate gentle breathing exercises to calm the mind and prevent seasonal allergies or irritability.

In season now

In season around Awakening of Insects: Pear, White Fungus, Chrysanthemum, Celery, Bamboo Shoots

Tap an ingredient for its nature, uses and nutrition.

Qi Stagnation

Stress, low mood and frequent sighing

Enjoy: Rose bud tea · Aged tangerine peel · Citrus fruit · Kelp · Daylily buds

Go easy: Too much caffeine · Alcohol · Stress eating

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.