Recipe: Restorative 'five teasures' herbal tea

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When I come home late or burn the midnight oil over a deadline, I can always count on my mom’s “five treasures” herbal tea to soothe me.

Commonly enjoyed in Cantonese households, the tea gets its name from its five key ingredients: red dates, goji berries, dried longan, dried lily bulbs and peach gum — all staples in traditional Chinese medicine and herbal soups.

Each ingredient is traditionally valued for its own properties. Red dates are believed to support circulation and immunity, while goji berries are believed to support eye health. Dried longan contains iron and magnesium, dried lily bulbs are traditionally used for their calming properties, and peach gum is valued as a source of collagen.

Together, these ingredients make a warming, restorative drink that is traditionally believed to replenish energy, ease fatigue and calm the mind. It’s one of my mom’s go-to remedies after a long day — and especially comforting during the colder months.

8 red dates, softened and pitted

1/4 cup (60 mL) goji berries

1/4 cup (60 mL) dried lily bulbs

1/4 cup (60 mL) dried longan

1/4 cup (60 mL) peach gum, soaked in water for 10–24 hours, until softened

Water

Add the red dates, goji berries, dried lily bulbs, dried longan and softened peach gum to a pot. Add enough water to fill the pot about halfway. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat.

Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the tea steep, covered, for another 10 minutes. Serve warm.

Makes 4 servings.