Winter Tonics
As the weather is getting colder it is a good time to raise yang energy and fortify vitality. Here are a few commonly available herbs used in Daoist tonic herbalism to bolster the Three Treasures in the body: Vitaly, Spirit and Essence.
- Ginger is strongly warming, helps dispel cold and invigorates circulation – great for maintaining a healthy digestive fire and protecting against chills. It is particularly good at releasing the exterior, especially in the early stages of colds and flu, by opening the surface of the body and encouraging the flow of Wei Qi (defensive energy). Ginger helps expel external pathogens and prevents them from invading deeper into the body.
- Codonopsis (Dang Shen), often called the “poor man’s ginseng,” gently tonifies Qi, strengthening the lungs and spleen to help reduce fatigue and improve physical energy and stamina of the muscles and body.
- Reishi mushroom, prized in Daoist tonic traditions as the “spirit herb,” nourishes the Heart and calms the Shen (mind/spirit), while supporting immune balance and longevity.
- Ginseng (Ren Shen) is a potent Qi and Yang tonic that sharpens mental clarity and boosts overall vitality.
- Goji berries are a potent Liver and Kidney Yin tonic which enrich the Blood and Essence, as well as brightening the eyes.
Together, these herbs work synergistically to strengthen the body’s energy, enhance immunity, and maintain balance between Yin and Yang through the cold season.
You can find them in Chinese supermarkets and some health food stores. For optimal absorption, it’s best to prepare them as decoctions using dried herbs, or incorporate them into soups, stocks, and slow-cooked dishes. Extract powders or granules are also a good way to support vitality and resilience throughout the winter months for those with a busy lifestyle.
You can get our Winter Tonic dried herb mixture at Sea Cloud Hall for a small donation, and this includes all of the herbs above plus several other less common herbs from an ancient Daoist formula used to fortify the Three Treasures during the cold winter months. We also have a stock of Reishi and other mushroom extracts for immune support, and you will be able to order granule extracts of the Winter Tonic Herbs by request – just send us a message or come and speak to us to find out more!