Cold Dew is the seventeenth of the twenty-four solar terms and the fifth in autumn, occurring between October 7th and 9th each year in the Gregorian calendar.
China divides Cold Dew into three phases: “In the first phase, geese are seen as guests; in the second, sparrows turn into clams in the water; in the third, chrysanthemums bloom yellow.” During this period, geese fly south in formation, either in a line or in a V-shape. As the weather turns colder in late autumn, sparrows become scarce, and ancient people noticed many clams appearing on the beach, with shells resembling sparrow feathers in pattern and color, leading them to believe that sparrows had transformed into clams. The “blooming of chrysanthemums” in the third phase indicates that chrysanthemums are in full bloom at this time.
After Cold Dew, there is an increase in dew and a further drop in temperature, with autumn dryness becoming more pronounced. In terms of climate, during Cold Dew, the southern regions experience a deepening of autumn with cool, breezy weather and less rain, while the northern areas have entered or are about to enter winter from late autumn.
What kind of Tea should one drink during Cold Dew to promote health? Actually, the simplest method is to drink tea, with three cups a day being sufficient.
In the morning, drink black tea. Black tea is sweet and warm, containing abundant proteins and sugars, which generate heat and warm the abdomen, enhancing the body's resistance to cold. Drinking black tea in the morning promotes blood circulation and dispels the chill within the body. Additionally, black tea, being fully fermented, has a mild nature and is particularly suitable for those with weak digestive systems or general frailty.
In the afternoon, drink Green Tea to boost alertness and reduce internal heat. Drinking green tea in the afternoon can regulate bodily functions and enhance physical resilience, preventing colds. Alternatively, Oolong tea can be consumed to alleviate the liver's heat at midday.
In the evening, drink Anhua dark tea. There is a common misconception that Drinking Tea before bedtime causes insomnia, but Anhua dark tea actually aids sleep. During fermentation, large quantities of yeast are produced, which convert carbon dioxide and water into carbonate ions. This process transforms caffeine and other alkaloids into salts, effectively neutralizing their stimulating effects and preserving the body's hydration levels, moisturizing the skin without affecting sleep. Fermentation also converts part of the Anhua dark tea's cellulose into soluble fiber through enzymatic hydrolysis, which helps to eliminate cholesterol and bile acids from the body, detoxifying and beautifying the skin. It also maintains intestinal moisture, preventing constipation. By drinking Anhua dark tea, one can quietly dispel dryness and enjoy a peaceful night's sleep during Cold Dew.
Finally, we recommend that everyone: As the weather cools during Cold Dew, why not enjoy a cup of tea specific to this season!
If there are any copyright issues, please contact us to remove the content.