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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

Smoked plum and red date tea
Awakening of Insects · Tea break · Sensitive (Allergic)

Smoked plum and red date tea

Sour-sweet smoked plums and mellow red dates make a warm cousin of sour plum drink: appetising and gentle.

  • 30 min
  • Serves 2
  • Simmer
  • Easy
NeutralConsolidates the exteriorGenerates fluids

Why it suits you: Special (allergic) types suffer most from pollen and big temperature swings at Awakening of Insects. Sour, astringent smoked plum is part of the classic anti-allergy formula Guo Min Jian, while red dates and liquorice support the middle and protective qi.

Method

Prep 5 min · Cook 25 min
  1. 1Rinse the plums, dates and liquorice and put them in a pot with the water.
  2. 2Bring to the boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in the rock sugar until dissolved, strain and drink warm.

Cautions

  • Pause it if you have excess stomach acid or the first signs of a cold with phlegm or fever.

The TCM view

Smoked plum is sour, astringent and neutral, restraining the lungs and generating fluids. Red dates are sweet and warm and support qi and blood; liquorice strengthens the spleen and harmonises. Sour and sweet together generate yin and consolidate the exterior.

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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.

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.