As Hong Kong celebrates major holidays, the consumption of rich, calorie-dense festive foods—such as the high-sugar, glutinous zhongzi (rice dumplings) during the Dragon Boat Festival—often leads to uncomfortable indigestion and stomach sluggishness. To counter these common ailments, traditional Chinese wellness principles offer a selection of therapeutic teas and natural remedies aimed at enhancing spleen and stomach function.
For those experiencing post-feast discomfort, experts recommend incorporating natural, digestive-aiding concoctions into their routines. These remedies, suitable for both adults and children, focus on promoting digestion, relieving bloating, and optimizing gut health.
Five Efficacious Traditional Tea Blends for Digestion
Five prominent traditional tea remedies are highlighted for their effectiveness in easing shijī (food stagnation) and strengthening the digestive system:
1. Hawthorn, Malt, and Apple Tea
This warming blend is particularly beneficial for those feeling bloated due to overindulgence in holiday sweets and heavy meals that can weaken the spleen and stomach. The inclusion of barley malt (maiya) is known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its potent action in dissolving food stagnation, particularly starch.
2. Hawthorn, Dark Plum, and Roselle Tea
Offering a pleasantly sour and sweet flavour profile, this tea not only stimulates appetite and aids digestion but also incorporates elements believed to assist with fat metabolism. The combination of ingredients promotes gastric juice secretion, leading to an overall feeling of lightness.
3. Sour Plum Soup (Suanmeitang)
A timeless classic, Suanmeitang is renowned for its ability to clear heat, promote the production of bodily fluids, and support spleen and stomach function. Its refreshing acidity makes it a popular choice for mitigating the heavy feeling after rich meals, such as hot pot.
4. Qi-Regulating and Bloating-Relief Tea (Best for ‘Heat-Type’ Individuals)
Individuals classified as ‘heat-type’ in TCM often suffer from dry mouth, bad breath, and constipation. This specialized tea features Foshou (Buddha’s Hand fruit) to regulate qi and relieve abdominal discomfort, particularly gas. Malt and rice germ promote the digestion of starchy foods and soothe stomach pain.
5. Accumulation-Reducing and Vomiting-Relief Tea (Best for ‘Cold-Type’ Individuals)
‘Cold-type’ individuals, characterized by cold extremities, fatigue, and a thick, white tongue coating, benefit from this blend. It aims to harmonize the qi and strengthen the spleen while dispersing food accumulation. Ingredients like fresh ginger help descend upward-moving stomach qi, easing nausea associated with indigestion.
Note: Individuals are advised to consult a certified TCM practitioner before consuming therapeutic teas, as suitability depends on individual body constitution.
Comprehensive Strategies for Digestive Relief
Beyond traditional teas, integrating lifestyle adjustments and specific foods can significantly improve digestion following heavy meals.
1. Enzyme-Rich Foods
Consuming foods rich in natural digestive enzymes can help the gut process large amounts of protein and fat quickly. Recommended foods include pineapple, papaya, kiwi, avocado, ginger, and fermented items like kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. These enzymes accelerate the breakdown of nutrients, reducing the burden on the digestive tract.
2. Tannin and Caffeine Consumption
Moderate consumption of beverages like Pu-erh tea or coffee can aid digestion. Both contain tannins and caffeine, which stimulate gastric acid secretion. Research from institutions like the University of Michigan suggests that caffeine notably increases intestinal motility, helping the body process food faster.
3. Probiotic Integration
To rapidly address sluggish digestion, introducing probiotic-rich foods helps restore balance to the gut microbiome. Fermented foods such as natto, edamame, yogurt, tempeh, and kimchi stimulate bowel movements and accelerate the clearance of waste.
4. Acupressure for Digestive Support
Acupressure offers a non-dietary approach to relief. Applying pressure to specific points can stimulate digestive function:
- Zusanli (Stomach 36): Located four finger-widths below the kneecap on the outside of the shin. It strengthens the spleen and stomach.
- Tianshu (Stomach 25): Located two finger-widths away from the naval. Massaging this point supports intestinal motility and reduces bloating.
- Zhongwan (CV12): Midway between the navel and the sternum. Massaging enhances digestion and relieves abdominal pain.
- Neiguan (Pericardium 6): Located three finger-widths up the inner wrist, between the two tendons. This point is effective for easing nausea and reducing gas buildup.
By combining the centuries-old wisdom of traditional Chinese tea therapy with modern dietary knowledge, residents can navigate the enjoyment of festive Hong Kong cuisine while maintaining optimal digestive comfort. Persistent symptoms, however, warrant consultation with a healthcare professional.