Question
How do I brew two doses of traditional Chinese medicine? Is there a time limit? Can I add water in the middle?
Answer
The standard method for brewing two doses of traditional Chinese medicine is as follows: First, soak the herbs in clean water for 30 to 60 minutes, then boil them with high heat until they reach a boil, and then simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. Pour out the medicine and keep it aside. For the second brewing, add fresh water, bring it to a boil with high heat, and then simmer on low heat for 25 minutes. Mix the second and first batches of medicine evenly. For flowers, herbs, cooling herbs, and aromatic herbs, usually 15 minutes of brewing is sufficient, while tonifying herbs require slow simmering on low heat for 40 to 60 minutes. Please follow the doctor’s instructions for brewing.