Many herbs and foods in Chinese Medicine have very specific healing effects on the body. In fact a large part of the medicines used in Western medicine were originally derived or inspired from these healing natural substances. Some of them have very specific effects that are noticeable almost immediately when consumed. For example, pepper will have a strong effect of warming the body in small amounts, but if very hot varieties are consumed in sufficient quantities the body will first sweat and then cool down. This explains why these types of spicy cuisines prevail in countries like Mexico and India.
Two common household herbs which have the ability to warm the body and help maintain a better warming metabolism in the northern climates during winter are ginger and cinnamon. They have the added plus of being pleasant tasting and compliment each other well. An excellent way of using them at this time of the year is by making a tea which you can brew at home in the morning and take with you, sipping throughout the day! Try following these simple directions and tell me what you think!
- Slice 3-4 pieces of ginger from a fresh ginger root that are about the size of a quarter and add two sticks of cinnamon in a two quart non aluminum pot.
- Add approximately 1 quart of water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes and take off the flame.
- Add small amount of good quality honey, maple syrup, stevia, etc. if desired. Place in a thermos and drink throughout the day hot and enjoy!
