In Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM), the Lungs are connected to the Metal element and to the season of autumn. During this season, we often find that our lungs become more susceptible to external pathogens.
Ginger, mint and lemon tonic can be helpful in alleviating the symptoms of a common cold. From a TEAM perspective, the ingredients of this tonic have the following therapeutic qualities:
Ginger detoxifies, relieves cough, dispels cold, relieves nausea
Peppermint cools heat and loosens phlegm
Lemon relieves cough, resolves phlegm, clears heat, creates body fluids and quenches thirst
Garlic dispels cold, relieves cough, detoxifies and moves qi
Chilli dispels cold and encourages sweating
Honey moistens dryness, relives a cough, detoxifies and moistens the lungs.
I usually make this as soon as symptoms appear.
Ginger, mint and lemon tea
In a large bodum or tea pot place the following ingredients:
- 3-4 slices of fresh ginger
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, smashed
- 2-3 slices of lemon or half a piece of lemongrass, smashed
- a dash of Tabasco sauce, or a sprinkle or chilli/cayenne/paprika/black pepper
- a handful of fresh mint leaves or 1-2 teaspoons of peppermint tea
- 2.5 cups of boiling water
Let steep for 5 minutes and sweeten with honey or agave syrup.
The concepts discussed in this article are presented within a Traditional East Asian Medicine (TEAM) framework and are intended for educational purposes only.
Photo credit: Photo by Юлія Вівчарик on Unsplash
