The climate is changing as we move between seasons and you maybe surprised to discover that your body experiences stress as it attempts to adapt to these changes. The stresses are placed upon our immune system making us more susceptible to such things as colds & flu. However, there’s a mix of herbs that can be used to enhance the immune system which is commonly called ‘Change of Season Broth’
Change of Season broth contains the following:
Codonopsis pilosula root: energizes and strengthens Qi, builds blood, nourishes body fluids, and energizes the spleen and lung.
Astragalus root: strengthens protective defenses, nourishes the spleen, energizes the blood and lungs, and strengthens the immune system.
Dioscorea villosa root: energizes and balances the lungs and the kidneys.
Chinese Lycii berries: helps to strengthen the liver and the kidneys.
How to prepare “Change of Season Broth”:
Combine equal parts (2-3 oz each) of each herb
Fill a large stock pot with water.
Add the above herbs to the pot and place the lid on.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 2 to 4 hours. If the water level boils down, add water to refill if necessary.
Using a slotted spoon, remove the herbs from the pot and allow the broth to cool.
This recipe makes about 4 litres of broth.
You can drink the broth, use it as a base for soup recipes or place it in a mug and sip it throughout the day. Take the soup for two weeks at the change of the season to assist the body and its immune system during the change. The broth will last a couple of weeks in the fridge.
Please note people who are in the midst of a cold or flu should not drink the soup until after they have recovered