Drinking Fúchá during the Dàshǔ season

 

Dàshǔ, the twelfth solar term in the Chinese lunar calendar, marks the end of summer. Falling between July 22nd-24th on the Gregorian calendar, it is characterized by extreme heat and humidity, with temperatures reaching their peak. Compared to Xiǎoshǔ, Dàshǔ is even hotter and brings the most intense sunlight of the year, with high humidity levels.

During this period, people need to take measures to maintain their health. Drinking fúchá, a type of tea, is a great option.

Fúchá is a type of herbal tea made from over ten types of herbs, including honeysuckle, selfheal, and licorice, with a cooling effect. In ancient times, in many rural areas, there was a custom of putting tea water in a pavilion at the village entrance, providing free tea to passersby. Nowadays, such pavilions are rare, but the custom has been preserved in Wenzhou, where there are special people who make tea all day long to ensure supply. This type of tea, called "fúchá," has become a staple beverage during the hot summer months.

Drinking a cup of fúchá during the scorching hot Dàshǔ season not only relieves heat stress but also has diuretic and detoxifying effects, aids digestion, reduces cholesterol and weight, and enhances immunity. The method of making fúchá is simple, as the brewed herbal tea is poured into a cup and allowed to cool to a suitable temperature before drinking.

Dàshǔ is a season of extreme heat, and drinking fúchá is an excellent way to cool down. In areas like Wenzhou, fúchá has become an essential beverage during the summer. By drinking fúchá, people can alleviate discomfort caused by high temperatures and enhance their immunity, while cooling and refreshing their bodies. Moreover, fúchá is easy to make and convenient to use, making it a practical summer beverage.