Health Articles

External herbal washes require careful day-by-day preparation to extract their active properties correctly. Follow the sequence below for best results.

• Day 1: Soak one packet in 4 litres of cold water for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer for the prescribed time.
• Strain the liquid into a clean basin for use as directed by your practitioner.
• Retain the herbs — they can be re-cooked for a second batch the following day.
• Store unused prepared liquid in the refrigerator and use within the time advised.

Published May 2019

A herbal decoction is the traditional method of cooking dried herbs to produce a medicinal liquid. The cookware you use affects the quality of the medicine.

• Use a glass, ceramic, earthenware or enamel pot. Avoid metal cookware — stainless steel is the only acceptable exception.
• Rinse herbs briefly under cold water before cooking.
• Cover herbs with water as directed and soak for 20–30 minutes before applying heat.
• Bring to the boil, then reduce heat and simmer for the time specified in your prescription.
• Strain and drink while warm. A second decoction from the same herbs may be prepared as instructed.

Published May 2019

The Qi Tonic and other soup mix packs are prepared as a nourishing food-medicine. The protein you cook with matters for the tonic's therapeutic effect.

• Qi Tonic recommended proteins: chicken or poultry (not duck), lean pork, or abalone.
• Bring the herbs and protein to an initial boil, then discard the first water before adding fresh water for the main cook.
• Simmer for the prescribed time (typically 1.5–2 hours) until the broth is rich.
• Season lightly if desired — avoid strongly flavoured additives that may interfere with the medicine.
• Consume as directed by your practitioner, typically one to two servings per week.

Published May 2019