Hey friends & lovers,
Feeling gross & moody? Me too. Welcome to week 3 of our cycle syncing TCM series — the PMS phase.
This PMS Phase tea focuses on soothing mood swings, reducing bloating, and easing tension, common symptoms leading up to menstruation. If we can do something super quick and simple to help make our PMS week that much easier, why not? Plus, the effects of this tea will show through our skin because in TCM, what we eat has a direct impact on our overall skin health.
Table of contents
In TCM, PMS is often linked to Liver Qi stagnation, which can cause irritability, headaches, and hormonal breakouts. This blend features Qi-moving and blood-nourishing herbs to promote smooth energy flow, reduce stress , and support the body’s natural detoxification process. By calming the Liver and harmonizing the Spleen , this tea helps alleviate bloating, cramps, and skin inflammation , ensuring a smoother transition into your menstrual phase.
Ingredient & Benefit Breakdown
Rose Buds
- TCM Function: Moves Liver Qi , improves blood circulation , and soothes emotional stress.
- PMS Benefit: Helps relieve irritability, mood swings, and stress-related bloating by ensuring smooth Qi flow . Also reduces breast tenderness and PMS headaches.
- Skin Benefit: Promotes healthy blood flow , which enhances skin radiance , reducing dullness, puffiness, and uneven tone .
Mandarin peel 陳皮
- TCM Function: Regulates Qi flow , strengthens the Spleen , and reduces bloating.
- PMS Benefit: Helps ease bloating, gas, and sluggish digestion , which can worsen before menstruation due to Liver-Spleen disharmony . Also promotes calmness and stress relief .
- Skin Benefit: Supports gut health , which is directly linked to clearer skin and reduced breakouts . The high antioxidant content helps brighten skin and improve elasticity.
Mulberries 桑椹
- TCM Function: Nourishes Blood and Yin , moistens dryness, and supports Liver and Kidney health .
- PMS Benefit: Helps counteract blood deficiency , which can cause fatigue, dizziness, and dry skin . Also promotes better sleep , reducing PMS-related restlessness .
- Skin Benefit: High in antioxidants, vitamin C, and iron , mulberries help combat oxidative stress , keep skin hydrated , and support collagen production for a smooth, youthful glow .
Goji Berries 枸杞
- TCM Function: Tonifies the Liver and Kidneys , nourishes Blood and Yin , and brightens the eyes.
- PMS Benefit: Supports hormonal balance , reduces stress , and improves energy levels , making it great for fatigue and PMS-induced sluggishness .
- Skin Benefit: Packed with antioxidants and beta-carotene , goji berries help reduce inflammation , promote skin hydration , and protect against hormonal acne .
Chinese Jujube dates 紅棗
- TCM Function: Nourishes Blood and Qi , strengthens the Spleen and Stomach , and calms the Shen (spirit) .
- PMS Benefit: Eases anxiety and mood swings , reduces fatigue , and supports digestion , preventing bloating and poor nutrient absorption.
- Skin Benefit: High in vitamin C, iron, and polyphenols , jujube dates help brighten the skin , boost hydration , and prevent dryness and dullness .
Longan 桂圓
- TCM Function: Tonifies Heart Blood , calms the mind, and boosts Qi .
- PMS Benefit: Helps relieve stress and promote restful sleep , which is crucial for hormonal balance and skin repair . Reduces mental fog and fatigue .
- Skin Benefit: Supports blood circulation , ensuring the skin gets enough nutrients , helping to keep it plump, firm, and radiant .
The mandarin peel in this recipe gives the overall tea a bright and refreshing flavour. So if you love a citrusy taste in your soothing teas, you'll love this recipe.

2
5
TCM Cycle-Syncing Series
Recipe
- 1/2 cup of rosebuds
- 4 dried Mandarin peel 陳皮
- A handful of Mulberries 桑椹
- 1/2 cup of Goji Berries 枸杞
- 2 large Chinese Jujube dates 紅棗
- 1/2 cup of Longan 桂圓
Method
- Add all your ingredients into a small pot of water
- Bring to a boil and let it simmer for around 5 minutes
Your Happiness In a Bottle
Watch Us Make It
No One Talk To Me This Week
Anyone else feel like their on a psychotic rampage during their PMS week? It's okay, we'll drink this tea together and at least have really great skin.
We’ll be continuing our cycle-syncing TCM tea series next week - period phase! Not excited.
With love,
Rachel & Alia