Brewing Chinese herbs is actually a form of "medicine"

In our eyes, brewing Chinese herbs is tea, but from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, it is not. Brewing Chinese herbs to make tea is referred to as a "tea preparation" in Chinese medicine, which is an important form of herbal formulation. It serves as a supplement to the familiar decoction and is closest to it. However, in terms of appearance, decoctions are relatively turbid, while tea preparations are clearer.

However, since herbal tea is strictly considered medicine, it should not be consumed randomly. Let’s take a look at which herbal teas should not be consumed improperly.

Wolfberry and Chrysanthemum Tea

Wolfberry and chrysanthemum have become one of the most common herbal teas in recent years. While wolfberry has excellent nourishing and therapeutic effects, chrysanthemum is known for clearing heat, reducing internal fire, and improving vision. Therefore, this tea is very effective in reducing internal heat, whether it is deficiency fire or excess fire.

However, although chrysanthemum clears heat and reduces fire, it is inherently bitter and cold. If consumed excessively by those with weak constitutions, it may be too harsh. Special caution is needed with wild chrysanthemum, which helps to soothe wind, improve vision, clear heat, and detoxify. Those with weak spleen and stomach conditions and pregnant women must avoid it.

As for wolfberry, if you happen to have a cold, fever, diarrhea, or inflammation, consuming wolfberry is not appropriate. Wolfberry is suitable for those with weak constitutions and poor resistance. For healthy adults, around 15 grams per day is sufficient.

Rose Tea

Rose tea indeed has effects such as beautifying the skin, promoting circulation, and softening blood vessels. It can assist in treating gynecological diseases and has beautifying effects. It is also beneficial for patients with cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and heart conditions.

However, many people experience bloating and abdominal distension after drinking rose tea. This is because roses have a certain astringent effect, so it is not advisable to drink it when constipated.

Ginseng Tea

Nowadays, many people have started using ginseng and American ginseng to brew tea. Among these, ginseng is particularly potent. Although it greatly replenishes vitality, excessive use can lead to significant side effects.

For elderly people using it for daily health maintenance, 2-3 slices are sufficient, and there must be no contraindications. Brewing ginseng tea also requires particular care; it must be steeped slowly, even soaked for a day to gradually release its medicinal effects.

Cassia Seed Tea

Cassia seeds are a commonly used Chinese medicine. The seeds are used medicinally to clear the liver, improve vision, lower blood pressure, and promote bowel movements. Therefore, many people with constipation enjoy brewing cassia seed tea.

However, since cassia seeds have a laxative effect, consuming them can cause diarrhea, and prolonged use may lead to more complex constipation issues. Additionally, it is associated with a condition called melanosis coli. Thus, while cassia seed tea can be consumed, it is absolutely essential not to drink it for extended periods.

Astragalus Tea

"Astragalus is not suitable for prolonged boiling, so brewing it in water is indeed a better choice. However, it is important to note that simply steeping it in water may not fully release its medicinal properties." Therefore, when brewing astragalus in water, consider using freshly boiled water to ensure the medicinal flavors are extracted.

Boat-Fruited Sterculia Seed Tea

Boat-fruited sterculia seeds are only suitable for hoarseness caused by wind-heat pathogens invading the throat. They are ineffective for hoarseness due to vocal cord nodules, incomplete vocal cord closure, or excessive smoking and alcohol consumption.

Additionally, people with cold constitutions or those who frequently experience diarrhea should avoid boat-fruited sterculia seeds. Even for those with symptomatic pharyngitis, drinking boat-fruited sterculia seed tea for 1-2 weeks is sufficient. Overconsumption can damage yang energy and affect digestive function.