From green smoothies to tea: How to integrate TCM ingredients into your everyday life

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a wealth of natural ingredients that can strengthen body and mind. But how do you easily integrate this millennia-old healing art into your modern daily routine? With a few creative ideas and small adjustments, you can enjoy the power of TCM ingredients – from green smoothies to soothing tea.

Why TCM ingredients?

In TCM, the focus is on the body as a whole. The various ingredients are intended to promote the balance of yin and yang, strengthen vital energy (qi), and harmonize the five elements. Ingredients such as goji berries, ginger, schisandra, turmeric, and chrysanthemum blossoms offer numerous health benefits that can easily be incorporated into your daily routine.

1. Green smoothies with TCM power

Green smoothies are the perfect base for incorporating TCM ingredients into your diet. They're nutrient-rich, quick to prepare, and ideal for on-the-go.

Recipe idea:

• Base: A handful of spinach or kale and a banana for creaminess.
• TCM ingredients:
  • Goji berries: Rich in antioxidants and support the liver.
  • Schisandra powder: Promotes concentration and reduces stress.
  • Ginger: Warms from within and supports digestion.
• Mix with water or plant-based milk – and you have a smoothie full of vital nutrients.

Tip: Experiment with other superfoods such as reishi mushroom powder or ashwagandha for additional adaptogenic effects.

2. TCM tea: A moment of peace

In TCM, teas play an important role in nourishing and relaxing the body. Preparation is simple, and the effects can be tailored to your specific needs.

Popular teas and their effects:

• Chrysanthemum flower tea: Supports the eyes and helps with internal heat.
• Schisandra tea: Promotes liver health and provides inner balance.
• Ginger tea: Perfect for feeling cold or to strengthen the immune system.

Preparation:
Pour hot water over dried TCM ingredients, let it steep for 10 minutes, and enjoy. For added flavor, add honey or lemon.

3. Soups and broths with medicinal herbs

Soups and broths are another easy way to incorporate TCM ingredients. They provide warming support for the Qi, especially in autumn and winter.

Recipe idea for TCM soup:

• Base: A clear vegetable broth or chicken broth.
• TCM ingredients:
  • Astragalus root: Supports the immune system.
  • Goji berries: For liver and eyes.
  • Reishi mushroom: Promotes vitality and has a calming effect.
• Simmer the ingredients with the broth, strain and enjoy warm.

4. Snacks with TCM ingredients

Snacks can also be enhanced with TCM ingredients. Simple recipes make them a healthy alternative to industrially processed products.

Energy balls with goji berries and schisandra:

• Ingredients:
  • oatmeal
  • Dates
  • Goji berries
  • One teaspoon of Schisandra powder
  • Some almond butter or coconut oil
• Blend all ingredients in a blender, form into balls and store in the refrigerator.

Tip: These energy balls are ideal as a snack between meals or before exercise.

5. Spices for every dish

Traditional Chinese spices such as turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, or fennel seeds can be easily incorporated into everyday dishes. They support digestion, have a warming or cooling effect, and add a special touch to your meals.

Ideas:

• Use turmeric in curries or golden milk.
• Mix cinnamon and cardamom into porridge or coffee.
• Enjoy fennel seeds in salads or as a tea.

Conclusion: TCM made easy

Incorporating TCM ingredients doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With smoothies, teas, soups, and snacks, you can easily bring the power of this millennia-old healing art into your everyday life. Give it a try and discover how these natural ingredients can boost your well-being in a simple and delicious way!