Chinese Herbal Powders

What's in the range

These powders come from plants with a long place in Chinese herbal tradition, where they are often better known by their Chinese names. Astragalus is huang qi, schisandra is wu wei zi, dong quai is dang gui, Panax ginseng is ren shen, Siberian ginseng is ci wu jia, fo-ti is he shou wu, gynostemma is jiaogulan, prepared rehmannia is shu di huang, liquorice root is gan cao, horny goat weed (epimedium) is yin yang huo, rhubarb root is da huang and pine pollen is song hua fen. Rhodiola, hong jing tian, grows in cold mountain regions of Europe and Asia.

Looking for reishi, turkey tail or cordyceps? They're in our Mushroom Powders range.

Flavours to expect

These are herbal powders rather than sweet treats, so expect earthy and often bitter flavours. Schisandra is the stand-out: its Chinese name means "five-flavour fruit", and it tastes sour, salty, sweet, bitter and pungent all at once. Prepared rehmannia, traditionally steamed and dried until dark, is sweet and almost treacly. Liquorice root is naturally very sweet, gynostemma is grassy with a gentle sweetness, and astragalus is mild, slightly sweet and earthy. Ginseng and rhubarb root are noticeably bitter.

How people use them

• As a tea: whisk a little powder into hot water, let it stand for a few minutes and add honey or lemon if you like.
• In soups and broths: astragalus has long been added to Chinese soups, and its mild taste works well stirred into stocks.
• In smoothies: stronger-tasting powders are easier to enjoy blended with banana, berries or cacao.

Always follow the directions on the product label. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking any medication, speak to your GP or pharmacist before using herbal powders.

Storing and sizes

Keep powders in their resealable pouch or an airtight jar somewhere cool, dry and dark, and always use a dry spoon so moisture doesn't cause clumping. Colour and aroma fade over time, so choose the size that suits how often you use it. Most powders come in sizes from small packs up to larger bags, and UK orders over £50 get free delivery.