Christmas may already be over this year, but the most important day in the Chinese calendar is fast approaching, which means there’s another excuse to continue the festivities of the party season.
Millions of people will celebrate Chinese New Year on February 5th with colorful parades, performances and displays around the world.
In China, this holiday is called ‘Chun Jiang’ or ‘Spring Festival’ as it marks the end of the coldest days of the year, and although we may be experiencing chilly weather here in the UK, people usually celebrate this day as the start of spring and the new beginnings it brings.
While the Chinese traditionally celebrate with fireworks, prayers and big family feasts, next month you can honour your zodiac sign in much smaller ways.
We spoke to Dr Sarah Brewer, medical director at Healthspan (healthspan.co.uk), who compiled a list of time-tested alternatives to herbal tonics used to ease all manner of everyday ailments.
cinnamon
Although it’s a delicious topping for fruity porridge, a sprinkling of cinnamon on your breakfast may have more benefits than just taste. “Cinnamon is a traditional Chinese medicine extracted from the bark of several related trees, including cinnamon native to China,” explains Brewer.
“In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used to boost immunity, stimulate sweating, improve circulation, and treat a variety of digestive symptoms, infections, and pain.”
Studies have also found that cinnamon can help lower blood sugar levels, and in Western medicine, cinnamon is often used to improve blood sugar control in diabetics and lower blood pressure because it has a mild diuretic effect.
Ginger
If you’re having an upset stomach, a piece of fresh ginger might be just what the doctor prescribes. “Ginger is a spice that comes from the rhizome and stem of a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia,” explains Brewer.
“It contains a variety of unique chemicals, including gingerol, zingerone, and warming essential oils that have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nausea properties.”
Ginger is a versatile root vegetable that Chinese doctors say can address a variety of health issues. Brewer explains that ginger is used as a warming remedy to treat digestive and respiratory conditions, and in Western herbal medicine it’s used to improve circulation, relieve nausea, and ease joint pain.
carrot
“Ginseng is one of the oldest herbal medicines and is believed to have been used as a revitalizing, life-enhancing tonic for at least 3,000 years,” Brewer says. This unassuming-looking root is one of the most popular herbal remedies, often taken in the form of a tea.
Experts say it’s a good option for those who find afternoon drowsiness keeps them from concentrating at work. “Ginseng root contains substances called ‘ginsenosides,’ some of which have a stimulating effect, others a relaxing effect,” Brewer says. She says ginseng is traditionally described as a restorative and energizing tonic that boosts strength, stamina, attention, and focus.
turmeric
If you’re looking for a natural alternative to painkillers, some studies suggest that this familiar yellow spice may be helpful.
“The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory antioxidant,” Brewer explains. “In traditional Chinese medicine, turmeric is used to relieve symptoms such as menstrual cramps and abdominal and chest pain.”
“It may also be used to reduce inflammation such as muscle and joint pain, boost the immune system, and stimulate liver function.”
