Herbal Help

Extracted from “The Star – 1st July 2013”

Here are some herbal remedies to soothe the body and help curb haze-related illnesses, according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practitioner, Lai Yeat Sean of Dama TCM in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Rose

Making a tea using rosebuds can enhance blood circulation and relieve headaches, something which is common during the haze. For a sweeter touch, add honey.

Chrysanthemum

Besides being a delightful and refreshing drink, chrysanthemum tea can reduce pain in eyes irritated by the haze.

 

Cassia Seed (known as jue ming zi in Mandarin)

Another thing that’s common during the haze is teary eyes, which is caused by the heat. Consuming boiled cassia seed can reduce that. This can be taken together with chrysanthemum.

Ophiopogon root (mai men dong)

Haze particles can clog up the lungs and make the throat dry. Take boiled ophiopogon root to moisten both the lungs and throat.

Buddha Fruit (luo han guo)

Due to the heat, it is common to drink something cold and sweet. However, consuming too much sugar can be detrimental to your health.

   Buddha fruit is healthier alternative to something sweet. Boil the fruit and quench your thirst with this sweet drink. It can also be taken with ophiopogon root.

Raw liquorice ( gan cao in Mandarin or kum chou in Cantonese )

Boil it in water and drink. It helps alleviate a cough, soothes the throat and reduces inflammation.

Lily bulbs with snow fungus

Make the drink by first boiling the snow fungus for two hours and then adding lily bulbs and rock sugar. This drink clears heatiness and nourishes the lungs.