Why Avoid Cold and Damp During Menstruation?
Many women feel abdominal pain, cold sensitivity, and low mood before and during their period—these symptoms may all be related to the body being "chilled." Our uterus likes warmth, just like plants like sunlight. When you eat cold foods, drink iced drinks, or your hands and feet get cold, your body tightens up, blood circulation becomes sluggish, and hormones become unstable. This is why elders always say: "During menstruation, keep warm, not cold."
Today I share a simple and effective tip: drink a cup of homemade ginger and jujube tea. It is suitable for women experiencing menstrual discomfort, premenstrual syndrome, menopausal hot flashes and cold sensitivity, as well as those who often have cold hands and feet, pale complexion (indicating deficiency of qi and blood). No complicated preparation is needed, it is safe and mild, suitable for daily consumption.
Ingredients You Need
- Ginger (3-4 slices): Fresh ginger, no need to peel.
- Dried red dates (5-6 pieces): Remove the pits and cut into small pieces.
- Brown sugar or honey (a teaspoon): Optional, for flavoring.
- Water (two bowls, about 500 ml)
Detailed Instructions
- Thinly slice the ginger, remove the pits from the dates and cut them into small pieces.
- Place the ginger slices and dates in a pot, add two bowls of water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat, pour the mixture into a cup, let it cool to a warm temperature.
- If you prefer sweetness, add a teaspoon of brown sugar or honey and stir well.
- Drink a cup every morning or afternoon, starting one week before your period and continuing until it ends. Sip slowly to warm up your body.
Why Is This Tea Helpful?
Ginger has a warming effect on the body, promoting blood circulation and helping the uterus stay warm, reducing menstrual cramps and cold sensations in the abdomen. Red dates can replenish qi and blood, giving a rosy complexion and improving fatigue and dizziness. Brown sugar is traditionally believed to "warm the uterus," generating heat and promoting blood circulation. Combined together, they act like an invisible little quilt for the body.
From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, this tea helps regulate "internal coldness": it can dispel cold, supplement qi, and nourish blood, making the flow of qi and blood smooth and balancing yin and yang. When the body is free from cold, hormonal fluctuations will also decrease, leading to a more stable and comfortable menstrual cycle.
Useful Tips: If your menstrual flow is particularly heavy, it's recommended to avoid adding brown sugar temporarily; if you are prone to internal heat (such as acne or dry mouth), you can reduce the amount of ginger. One cup per day is sufficient, do not overdo it.
Summary
In menstrual management, "keeping warm" is the simplest and most fundamental rule. A warm cup of ginger and jujube tea doesn't require spending money on a wellness center or taking complex supplements. Just by developing a habit, avoiding cold and damp during your period can help stabilize your hormones and make you feel more relaxed and comfortable overall.
Remember: Take care of your body, starting with each warm cup of tea.
Disclaimer: The content of this article is for reference only and cannot replace professional medical advice. If you have severe dysmenorrhea, irregular menstruation, or other health issues, please consult a doctor or a TCM practitioner. Individual constitutions vary, so adjust your diet accordingly based on your own condition.