Tea as Medicine
Let’s talk about tea. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), tea is so much more than a cozy ritual—it’s a way to nourish the body, support your energy and stay in harmony with the seasons. Whether you're sipping to boost Qi, calm the Shen or clear internal heat, the right herbs can do a lot.
We’re highlighting some of our favorite teas and herbal allies—from familiar pantry staples to lesser-known powerhouses—each with a unique role in supporting wellness through the lens of TCM.
Bee Pollen: A Tiny Tonic for Big Energy
Small but mighty, bee pollen is a serious Qi booster. In TCM, it's valued for its ability to support digestion, immunity, fertility and circulation. It’s especially nourishing for the liver and gallbladder, organs associated with momentum, creativity and emotional renewal.
Just a little goes a long way—start with a single granule and slowly build up to a tablespoon. It's a potent restorative, especially helpful after illness or long-term stress. Also a quick note of caution that those allergic to bees should not take bee pollen.
Turmeric: Move Qi, Ease Pain
You’ve seen it in lattes and golden milk, but turmeric’s healing roots run deep. Known as jiang huang in TCM, turmeric is used to invigorate blood, move Qi and ease pain, particularly in the joints and abdomen.
Its warm, spicy nature makes it perfect for conditions rooted in stagnation or inflammation, whether you're navigating PMS, chronic pain or post-workout soreness. For the best benefits, take turmeric with black pepper. It should, however, be avoided if you’re allergic to aspirin.
Beet Root: Nourish the Blood, Support the Heart
Beet root isn’t just a superfood—it’s a traditional tonic. In TCM, its deep red color hints at its role in nourishing the blood, supporting liver and heart function, and promoting healthy circulation.
Whether you're recovering from fatigue, managing stress or supporting your cycle, beet root offers gentle, grounding support.
Stinging Nettle: Gentle, Mineral-Rich Support
Don’t let the sting fool you—nettle is one of nature’s gentlest healers. In TCM, stinging nettle tea is used to nourish the blood, support the kidneys, and gently clear heat and toxins.
It’s a go-to for easing seasonal allergies, supporting hair and skin health, and rebuilding strength after illness or stress. Think of it as a daily mineral-rich tonic for resilience and balance.
Tulsi Tea: Calm the Shen, Support the Spirit
Also known as holy basil, tulsi is a calming adaptogen with deep roots in traditional healing. In TCM, tulsi supports the heart, lungs and digestion, gently clears heat and calms the Shen—the spirit or consciousness.
It’s a beautiful ally for stress, emotional overwhelm or when you simply need a moment of quiet grounding. A warm cup of tulsi tea is like a steady exhale for the nervous system. It can, however, lower blood pressure, so those with low blood pressure should use caution.
Each of these herbs offers something unique—a way to reconnect with your body, with nature and with seasonal rhythms. Whether you’re brewing for energy, clarity, calm or strength, tea is one of the simplest and most profound ways to care for yourself daily.
Here’s to sipping with intention,
Julie