17. August 2013

Gouji Tea

Gouji berries (Lycium Chinense) also known as wolfberry, look something like a small raisin but with a lovely red color. They are rich in vitamin A and benefit the eyes, liver and kidneys. Gouji is also believed to be an excellent antioxidant useful in the reduction of inflammation, support of vision, and immune function moderation. Gouji is rich in macronutrients being 68% carbohydrate, 12% protein, 10% fiber and 10% fat. (Wikipedia), 11 essential and 22 trace dietary minerals, 18 amino acids, 6 essential vitamins, the -5 unsaturated fatty acids, and numerous phenols, and numerous other phytochemicals such as beta-carotene and zeaxanthin.

Gouji berries are widely used in Asian cooking, appearing in everything from congee to soups, in combination with meats and vegetables in stir fries and other dishes. Gouji is also widely used as an herbal remedy, prized for its neutral energy, and its tonifying effect on blood, kidney yin, liver yin, and lung yin.

Gouji Immune Tea for Winter and reinforcing Liver and Kidney Recipe
1 tsp Gouji (about 9 gram as a day dosage)
5 Red dates
5g Chrysanthemum
½ tsp Honeysuckle
Boil water (1-2 cups 1000ml) and add to herb mixture. Allow to steam 5-10 minutes. Waiting it is warm, drink slowly. You can re-steep with hot water the herbs and drink the tea repeatedly until the flavor is gone. Once done you can pick out the Gouji berries and dates, and eat them.