How to Correctly Prepare the Four-Ingredient Soup? What Are the Recommended Consumption Methods?

The Four Ingredient Decoction has always been known as the first formula for gynecology. This formula is composed of four traditional Chinese medicinal herbs: Radix Paeoniae Alba, Radix Angelicae Sinensis, Radix Rehmanniae Preparata, and Rhizoma Chuanxiong. Regular consumption of this formula can have ideal effects on various gynecological diseases. It is especially effective for women in nourishing blood, regulating menstruation, beautifying the skin, enhancing immunity, and relieving menstrual pain. When preparing the Four Ingredient Decoction, simply soak the four herbs in water for half an hour and boil for 40-50 minutes before consumption.

1. What is the correct method for boiling the Four Ingredient Decoction? How should it be consumed? The standard formula for the Four Ingredient Decoction includes 12 grams of Radix Rehmanniae Preparata, 10 grams of Radix Angelicae Sinensis, 12 grams of Radix Paeoniae Alba, and 8 grams of Rhizoma Chuanxiong. Soak the four herbs in cold water for at least half an hour to soften them and make the active ingredients easier to extract. Then place them in a pot and boil over high heat until the water comes to a boil. After that, reduce the heat and continue boiling for 40-50 minutes.

2. How to consume the Four Ingredient Decoction? Since the Four Ingredient Decoction is primarily used as a tonic or supplement to improve physical weakness, there are no specific requirements for the timing of consumption. It can be taken either before or after meals. However, if taken after meals, it is recommended to wait for at least one hour. Additionally, the Four Ingredient Decoction should not be consumed during menstruation. It is best to take it two to three days after menstruation has ended to avoid prolonging the menstrual cycle due to incomplete recovery. It should also be avoided during the week before menstruation as hormonal changes during this time may cause side effects such as dizziness or nausea.

3. Precautions for consuming the Four Ingredient Decoction: Do not take any other medications, whether traditional or western, while consuming the Four Ingredient Decoction. If necessary, stop taking the decoction first. Additionally, if you dislike the herbal aroma or sweetness of the decoction, it is recommended to add some brown sugar or honey to enhance the flavor. Sweet leaf stevia can also be added to increase sweetness.