Herbal & Flower Teas
American Ginseng, Goji & Chrysanthemum Tea
Traditionally supports bright, rested eyes and eases everyday fatigue
Why people make this tea
Chrysanthemum is one of the most beloved everyday tea flowers, and Bro Niu keeps a few kinds on hand. This blend pairs fragrant baby chrysanthemum buds (tai ju) with sweet goji berries and a little American ginseng — a gift from a friend in Canada. It steeps up gentle and lightly sweet, the kind of cup that leaves your throat comfortable, your eyes feeling brighter, and your spirits a little more awake.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suited to people of all ages, and especially nice for night-owls and office workers who stare at screens and feel worn out.
- Because it contains American ginseng, enjoy it in the morning or at midday — drinking it late may keep some people awake. If you are pregnant, taking medication, or have a health condition, check with a doctor first.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Chrysanthemum (ju hua): Traditionally used to clear “liver heat” and brighten the eyes; it is also associated with soothing throat discomfort. Bro Niu notes the common types — hang ju (clears the liver and brightens the eyes, slightly bitter), tai ju (delicately fragrant, traditionally cooling for those with dry, bitter mouth from late nights), chu ju (associated with clearing heat and easing red, sore eyes and headaches), and gong ju (pretty white buds, traditionally calming and supportive of healthy blood pressure).
- Goji berries (gou qi zi): Long associated in food therapy with nourishing the liver and kidneys and supporting clear, bright vision.
- American ginseng (hua qi shen): A “cool” tonic traditionally used to support energy and ease fatigue without being heating.
Ingredients (1 pot, about 2 cups)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| American ginseng (hua qi shen) | 1 tablespoon | Sliced |
| Goji berries (gou qi zi) | 1 tablespoon | Rinse before use |
| Chrysanthemum (ju hua, tai ju buds) | 1 tablespoon | Rinse before use |
Method
- Put the goji berries and chrysanthemum in a teapot and rinse once with boiling water, then pour that water off.
- Add the American ginseng, pour in fresh boiling water, and cover.
- Let it steep for 5 minutes, then it is ready to drink.
Bro Niu’s tips
This tea is gentle enough for young and old alike, and it is especially good for people who stay up late and tire out at work. Sipped regularly it is traditionally enjoyed to help fend off fatigue, support resistance to colds, and ease tired eyes. Because of the American ginseng, keep it to mornings or midday.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (Min): Hello Bro Niu — if I drink this tea in the evening, will it keep me from falling asleep? Thank you. Bro Niu: American ginseng tea is best in the morning or around midday — that is the ideal time to enjoy it.
Published May 2, 2026 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
