In traditional Korean medicine, a Korean summer tonic tea called Saengmaeksan (생맥산) has been used for centuries to replenish fluids and support heart energy during hot weather.
Originally recorded in the Donguibogam (Korean Medical Classic), Saengmaeksan is a simple yet powerful formula made from just three herbs: Ophiopogon root, ginseng, and schisandra berries.
This tea is not only deeply hydrating, but also revitalizing and gentle enough to be consumed daily as a summertime wellness drink.
What is Saengmaeksan, a Korean Summer Tonic Tea?
Saengmaeksan (literally “Generating the Pulse Powder”) is a traditional Korean herbal tonic tea formulated to:
- Replenish bodily fluids
- Support heart function and qi (vital energy)
- Ease mild thirst or fatigue caused by heat
Often consumed during hot weather, Saengmaeksan is brewed into a cooling herbal tonic that can be enjoyed warm or chilled.
Ingredients (for ~500ml):
- Ophiopogon Root (Mai Men Dong / 맥문동) – 8g
- Korean Ginseng (Panax Ginseng / 인삼) – 4g
- Schisandra Berries (Wu Wei Zi / 오미자) – 4g
- Water – 500ml
- (Optional: 1 tsp honey or a jujube slice for mild sweetness)
How to Make It
- Rinse the herbs briefly under cool water.
- Add them to a pot with 500ml of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer for 20–30 minutes.
- Strain into a cup and enjoy warm or cooled. You may sweeten with honey or garnish with a thin jujube slice if you like.
Why This Korean Herbal Tea Works in Summer
This simple 2:1:1 ratio (Ophiopogon : Ginseng : Schisandra) was highlighted in the Donguibogam, one of Korea’s most important traditional medical texts. It reflects an elegant balance of yin nourishment, qi boosting, and fluid preservation – the very foundation of a functional Korean summer tonic tea.
- Ophiopogon cools and nourishes the lungs and heart
- Ginseng strengthens vital energy (qi)
- Schisandra helps retain fluids and calms the spirit
Together, they form a synergistic blend ideal for crafting a cooling herbal tonic tea that supports your body through the summer heat.
When to Enjoy This Korean Summer Tonic Tea
- On hot days, especially if you’re sweating a lot
- When feeling light-headed or easily fatigued in heat
- As a morning or mid-day tonic instead of caffeine
You can enjoy this as part of your summer self-care routine — a gentle way to support your body, rooted in Korean herbal wisdom.
Inspired by the Donguibogam
The recipe shared here is adapted from a simplified version of Saengmaeksan found in the Korean National Encyclopedia, which cites the Donguibogam as its source.
Let this ancient tea help you reconnect with your body’s rhythm — one calming cup at a time. This Korean summer tonic tea is a simple yet powerful ritual for summer wellness.
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