Barley Tea - Chinese Herbal Teas

Commonly used in Chinese medicine, Barley is believed to strengthen the digestion, clear heat and control blood sugar levels. In terms of nutrition, Barley is a great source of dietary fibre. It is also high in selenium and acts as an important antioxidant. Barley may help lower cholesterol and improve colon health. It can be easily added to the diet by drinking barley tea.

Barley can be purchased in teabag form from most Asian grocery stores and soaked in room temperature water for an hour or two and then consumed. Alternatively, you can purchase barley grain from the supermarket and prepare it in the following way.

• Take 2 tablespoons of pearl barley grain and place in a frying pan

• Dry fry the grains on medium heat until they change colour (dark brown) and become fragrant, stirring frequently (5-10 minutes)

• Place roasted pearl barley in a pot with 8 cups of water

• Simmer on low heat for 20 minutes

• Allow to cool

Drink your barley tea at room temperature, warm or hot.

Drinking 500ml – 2lt/day is recommended