Huang Qi, Wolfberries and Red Dates Tea

The kids in my close group of friends have been having fever, runny nose recently.  I think all the parents are coming down with something.  One of my friends asked me if I have anything natural to take.

I recall a drink that was quite helpful to me.  That is the 黄芪，红枣，枸杞子茶。 But just a word of caution.  I am no TCM doctor, but I know this drink is quite mild like chrysanthemum tea, but nevertheless still has herbs.  So it is good to test it out in smaller portions.

黄芪，枸杞，红枣茶
Ingredients:

15 g Huang Qi (Astralagus Root) ,
20 g Wolfberries (Gou Qi zi) ,
20 g Dried Red Dates (Hulled),
2-6 cups of water (Depending on taste)


Method:

1.  Weigh and wash all the ingredients.
2.  Put all the washed herbs and water into a pot (preferably clay)
3.  Bring to a boil.  Boil for another 5 minutes, off the flame and let the herbs seep in hot water.

4.  Let it cool down a little before drinking.
5.  If you want you can add more water or up the portion and store in the fridge.

Notes:
1.  The tea is said to improve immunity.
2.  I am not sure why you need to remove the hull of the red dates, but I have come across some literature that says that the hull is better removed to prevent dampness and heatiness, so I have always used hulled red dates.
3.  I tend to add more water as my kids tend to prefer it diluted, and also because I use it to replace drinking water.