Change of Season Soup is a herbal mixture developed to boost the body’s immune system. It is a Chinese blend of several types of dried roots and berries and is ideal whenever the seasons change. Generally speaking, spring and fall are the seasons in which most individuals become most vulnerable to colds and flus so these are definitely the best times to drink Change of Season Soup.

Ingredients
You will need approximately 2 to 3oz of each of the following herbs which you can pick up at your local Chinese Herbs store.

1. Codonopsis root
   This herb will help to tonify and strengthen “qi” energy. It helps to build blood and nourish body fluids and has properties similar to ginseng.
2. Astragalus root
   Astragalus is a root that helps to strenthen protective defenses, strengthen qi energy, nourish the spleen, tonify the blood and lungs and to build stamina.
3. Dioscorea root (Chinese yam root)
   Dioscorea is a herb that tonifies and balances the lungs and the kidneys. It is a powerful herb for treating dehydration be it due to an illness, excessive sweating from to physical activity, due to the weather, or whatever. Dioscorea is a superb herb for helping replenish body fluids when taken as a tea or with sufficient water.
4. Chinese Lycii berries (aka ‘wolfberries’ or ‘goji berries’)
   Lycii berries help to strengthen the liver and the kidneys, boost immune system function, improve circulation, promote longevity and are very rich in antioxidants.

Instructions

• Fill a large pot with 1 to 2 litres of water.
• Add the herbs and cover with lid.
• Bring to a boil and simmer for 4-6 hours, topping up with water as necessary.

Drink hot or cold throughout the day. Play with this basic recipe by using it as a base for soup recipes or by adding other herbs and spices to your liking.