Herbal & Flower Teas
Apple, Raisin and Fresh Lemon Tea
Traditionally associated with reducing fatigue, supporting skin health, and anti-inflammatory properties
Why people make this tea
Chronic low-grade inflammation is increasingly linked to many modern conditions — from skin problems to digestive issues to more serious long-term illness. Much of it traces back to diet and environment: processed foods, poor quality cooking oils, excess sugar, alcohol, and the relentless pace of daily life all contribute. Rather than reaching for a supplement, Bro Niu likes the idea of a simple, everyday fruit tea that brings together three ingredients that are widely available, genuinely nourishing, and a pleasure to drink.
Apple provides fibre and pectin, which support the digestive tract. Raisins bring concentrated polyphenols and natural iron — traditionally associated with improving blood quality and eye health. And fresh lemon, added off the heat at the end, delivers vitamin C and a brightness that lifts the whole drink. Together, they make a tea that is associated with reducing fatigue, supporting skin radiance, and providing gentle ongoing antioxidant support. Best of all, it takes less than 25 minutes to make and most of the work happens on its own.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable for most people — adults, children, and the elderly
- Nursing mothers can drink this tea freely
- Diabetics can enjoy it but should use only half the amount of raisins (raisins are high in natural sugar)
- Those with a very cold constitution may prefer to add a small slice of ginger to warm the brew slightly
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Apple: Rich in dietary fibre and pectin; traditionally associated with regulating the intestines, supporting digestion, and providing gentle sweetness; polyphenols in apple skin are associated with antioxidant activity
- Raisins: Concentrated source of polyphenols, natural iron, and B vitamins; traditionally associated with nourishing blood, supporting eyesight, and providing energy; those who tend towards cold constitution can use black raisins for a slightly warmer effect
- Fresh lemon: Provides vitamin C and natural acids; associated with supporting the immune system, brightening the skin, and stimulating digestion; always added off the heat to preserve its vitamin content and fragrance
Ingredients (1 serving — 2 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | 1 medium | Briefly soak in hot water to remove wax; rinse, core, and slice — skin on |
| Raisins | 1 tablespoon (~15 g) | Available in most supermarkets |
| Fresh lemon | 2 thin slices | Added after heat is off |
Method
- Briefly immerse the apple in hot water for a minute to loosen any wax coating; rinse well. Remove the core and slice — leave the skin on.
- Combine the apple slices and raisins in a small pot with 3 bowls of water.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes until reduced to about 2 bowls.
- Turn off the heat. Add the fresh lemon slices and cover; steep for 5 minutes.
- Pour into cups and enjoy. The softened apple and raisins can also be eaten.
Bro Niu’s tips
The lemon goes in after the heat is off — this preserves the vitamin C and the bright citrus aroma, both of which are destroyed by prolonged boiling. This tea is naturally sweet and very easy to drink regularly. If you prefer a cold-constitution-friendly version, add a small slice of fresh ginger during the simmering stage. For diabetics, simply halve the raisins. For a family of four, Bro Niu suggests two large apples, three tablespoons of raisins, and five or six lemon slices — you do not need to multiply by four.
Community questions answered (selected)
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Q (Ling): Can someone with diabetes drink this tea? Bro Niu: Yes, people with diabetes can drink it — but use only half the amount of raisins, as raisins are high in natural sugar.
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Q (步印): Can black raisins be used instead of regular ones? Bro Niu: Yes — if you have a cold constitution, black raisins are actually an even better choice.
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Q (Mrs S): Is this one serving? How do I scale it up for a family of four (2 adults, 2 children)? Bro Niu: This is a single serving. For four people, use 2 large apples (or 3 small ones), 3 tablespoons of raisins, and about 5–6 lemon slices. You do not need to multiply everything by four.
Published May 31, 2019 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 3 min read.
