Mint, Coriander, Ginger and Brown Sugar Tea

Why people make this tea

When the weather shifts suddenly and a cold starts to creep in — that slightly sore feeling in the nose and throat, an unexpected sneeze, a shivery sense that something is coming — this is the moment this tea is made for. In Chinese food therapy, getting ahead of a cold in its earliest stage is everything. Mint disperses wind-heat from the surface of the body; coriander (especially the roots) promotes circulation and helps the body sweat out the invading pathogen; ginger warms from within and settles the stomach; and brown sugar provides gentle energy while tempering any harshness. Together they form a tea that is fragrant, fast, and genuinely comforting when you feel a cold coming on.

Method

1. Wash the mint and cut into sections. Wash the coriander well from root to tip and cut into sections.
2. Bring 900 ml of water to a rolling boil in a small pot.
3. Add all ingredients and boil for 10 minutes.
4. Add brown sugar to taste, stir to dissolve, and serve warm.
5. Drink while warm; rest and keep warm afterwards.

Nourilo’s Tips

The coriander roots hold more medicinal value than the leaves — try to use the whole plant. This tea also helps with mild digestive discomfort, nausea, and indigestion. Drink it warm and rest immediately after; a gentle sweat is a sign it is working. People who already perspire heavily, have a weak constitution, or have yin deficiency with internal heat should avoid this tea. It is not intended for a full-blown cold or high fever — see a doctor if symptoms worsen or fever climbs.