What is Sanmeicha?

Sour plum tea (sour plum tea) is a traditional summer refreshment that originated in ancient China's imperial court and among the general public. It has a history spanning over a thousand years, and its main ingredients are a combination of herbivorous and herbaceous ingredients, such as lily of the valley (Ubai), hawthorn, licorice, and corn. It is steeped and then chilled before being drunk. Its balanced sourness and sweetness create a refreshing taste that quenches thirst. It is especially popular in the summer, and is also known as a "naturally refreshing beverage."

Historical background

Classical writings

"Compendium of Materia Medica" states, "Plum blossoms soothe with their sourness, dissolve with their neutrality, quench thirst, and soothe the body. In summer, black plum blossoms are used to make a decoction to ward off heat, produce fluids in the body, and quench thirst."

"Suixiju In-Diet Fu": "Water infused with black plum will dispel heat, soothe the mind, quench thirst, and regulate the stomach."

origin

Imperial Court Origins

During the Tang and Song dynasties, sour plum tea (sour plum tea) was used as an official summer drink at the imperial court, and it is said to have been valued for its effectiveness in both cooling off from the heat and promoting health.

Folklore:

During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the recipe spread to the general public, and tea became a popular drink on street corners and in markets during the summer.