Herbs are the quiet foundation of Chinese confinement. While the soups, stews, and warming dishes get the most attention, it is the carefully chosen herbal ingredients simmered within them that give confinement food its distinctive therapeutic character. In the tradition of zuo yue zi (坐月子), herbs are not supplements taken in isolation — they are woven into daily meals and teas, following formulas refined over centuries of practice.

This guide covers the most important herbs and teas used during confinement: their TCM classifications, traditional uses, the stage of confinement they are most appropriate for, and what modern research has to say about their properties.

For the broader dietary framework, see our Chinese confinement diet guide. For recipes that use these herbs, see our confinement recipes collection.

Important note: The herbs discussed in this article are traditionally used in food-grade quantities as part of a balanced diet during confinement. They are not therapeutic prescriptions. Postpartum women should consult their healthcare provider before using herbal supplements, especially if taking medication, recovering from surgical delivery, or managing a medical condition. TCM herbs are traditionally used in carefully balanced formulas — not in isolation — and dosage matters.

The Role of Herbs in Confinement

In TCM, the postpartum body is understood to be in a state of deficiency: qi (vital energy) is depleted, blood has been lost, and the body’s internal balance of yin and yang is disrupted. The herbal ingredients used during confinement are chosen to address specific aspects of this deficiency at each stage of recovery. For a broader look at how TCM supports postpartum recovery beyond herbal medicine, see our guide to Chinese postpartum care.

Herbs serve several key functions during confinement:

  • Nourishing blood (bu xue, 补血) — replacing blood lost during delivery
  • Tonifying qi (bu qi, 补气) — restoring vital energy
  • Warming the interior (wen li, 温里) — counteracting the postpartum “cold” state
  • Promoting circulation (huo xue, 活血) — supporting lochia discharge and preventing stagnation
  • Calming the spirit (an shen, 安神) — addressing anxiety and supporting sleep
  • Supporting lactation (tong ru, 通乳) — promoting breastmilk production

Key Confinement Herbs: A Comprehensive Guide

Red Dates (Hong Zao, 红枣, hóng zǎo)

TCM classification: Warm; sweet. Enters the spleen and stomach channels.

Traditional use: Red dates (jujubes) are arguably the single most ubiquitous ingredient in confinement cooking. They appear in virtually every tea, soup, and dessert. In TCM, red dates tonify the spleen, nourish blood, and calm the spirit. They are considered gentle enough for daily use throughout all four stages of confinement.

Modern research: Red dates are rich in vitamin C (up to 69 mg per 100 g in fresh fruit), iron, potassium, and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), a compound involved in cellular energy metabolism. Studies have identified significant antioxidant activity, with the polysaccharide fraction showing immunostimulatory properties (Gao et al., 2013).

Confinement stage: All stages (Weeks 1-4).

Common preparations: Red date tea (daily drink), added to soups, congee, and herbal formulas.

A traditional Chinese tea set arranged on a wooden tray — tea is central to confinement nourishment

Goji Berries (Gou Qi Zi, 枸杞子, gǒu qǐ zi)

TCM classification: Neutral; sweet. Enters the liver, kidney, and lung channels.

Traditional use: Goji berries nourish the liver and kidneys, brighten the eyes, and moisten the lungs. During confinement, they are used primarily to support liver and kidney recovery — two organ systems considered heavily taxed by pregnancy and childbirth in TCM.

Modern research: Goji berries (Lycium barbarum) contain significant concentrations of zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and unique polysaccharides. Research has documented antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective properties (Amagase & Farnsworth, 2011). A systematic review noted that L. barbarum polysaccharides may support immune function, though more rigorous clinical trials are needed.

Confinement stage: All stages, though most prominently from Week 2 onwards.

Common preparations: Added to teas (red date and goji tea, longan goji tea), soups (black chicken soup, fish soups), and congee.

Dang Gui / Angelica Sinensis (Dang Gui, 当归, dāng guī)

TCM classification: Warm; sweet, pungent. Enters the liver, heart, and spleen channels.

Traditional use: Known as the “female ginseng,” dang gui is the pre-eminent blood-nourishing herb in TCM. It tonifies blood, promotes blood circulation, regulates menstruation, and moistens the intestines. During confinement, it is a central ingredient in formulas from Week 2 onwards, once the initial cleansing phase is complete.

Modern research: Dang gui contains ferulic acid, ligustilide, and polysaccharides. Research has documented haematopoietic (blood-forming), anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activity. A review published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology noted that Angelica sinensis polysaccharides stimulate haematopoiesis and modulate immune function (Wei et al., 2016). Ferulic acid, its primary bioactive compound, has demonstrated anti-platelet aggregation and vascular relaxation properties.

Confinement stage: Primarily Weeks 2-4. Avoid in Week 1 due to its blood-moving properties, which could increase lochia.

Common preparations: Ba zhen tang (Eight Treasure Soup), shi quan da bu tang (Perfect Major Supplementation Decoction), black chicken herbal soup.

Caution: Dang gui should not be used in excessive doses. It is blood-moving as well as blood-nourishing, which is why it is typically avoided during heavy lochia in Week 1 and always used as part of a balanced formula.

Astragalus (Huang Qi, 黄芪, huáng qí)

TCM classification: Slightly warm; sweet. Enters the spleen and lung channels.

Traditional use: Astragalus is one of the most important qi-tonifying herbs in TCM. It strengthens the wei qi (defensive energy, analogous to immune function), lifts prolapsed organs, and promotes tissue repair. During confinement, it is used from Week 2-3 onwards to rebuild energy and support the immune system.

Modern research: Astragalus has been extensively studied. Its polysaccharides have demonstrated immunomodulatory effects — specifically, enhancing macrophage activity and natural killer cell function. A systematic review published in PLOS ONE found evidence supporting its use as an immune system modulator (Block & Mead, 2003). Astragaloside IV, its primary saponin, has also shown cardioprotective and anti-fatigue properties.

Confinement stage: Weeks 2-4. Too tonifying for the cleansing phase in Week 1.

Common preparations: Herbal chicken soups, shi quan da bu tang, fish soups, combined with dang gui for blood and qi dual tonification.

Codonopsis (Dang Shen, 党参, dǎng shēn)

TCM classification: Neutral; sweet. Enters the spleen and lung channels.

Traditional use: Codonopsis is often used as a gentler substitute for ginseng in confinement cooking. It tonifies qi, strengthens the spleen and lungs, and nourishes blood. Because it is milder than ginseng, it is considered more appropriate for the gradual recovery process of zuo yue zi.

Modern research: Codonopsis pilosula contains lobetyolin, polysaccharides, and alkaloids. Studies have demonstrated adaptogenic, anti-fatigue, and immunomodulatory properties (Gao et al., 2018). Its polysaccharides have shown ability to modulate gut microbiota, which may be relevant given the digestive disruption that commonly follows childbirth.

Confinement stage: Weeks 2-4. Can be introduced slightly earlier than astragalus as it is gentler.

Common preparations: Herbal soups, ba zhen tang (often substituted for ginseng in confinement versions), braised dishes.

Ginger (Jiang, 姜, jiāng)

TCM classification: Warm to hot (depending on processing). Enters the spleen, stomach, and lung channels.

Traditional use: Ginger is the single most important confinement ingredient — used in virtually every meal from Day 1. Old ginger (lao jiang, 老姜) is preferred for its stronger warming effect. In TCM, ginger warms the middle burner (digestive system), dispels cold, transforms phlegm, and supports appetite. Dried ginger (gan jiang, 干姜) and roasted ginger (pao jiang, 炮姜) are used in herbal formulas such as sheng hua tang.

Modern research: Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has a robust evidence base. A comprehensive review confirmed anti-inflammatory properties via inhibition of COX-2 and 5-lipoxygenase, as well as anti-nausea, antioxidant, and gastroprotective effects (Mashhadi et al., 2013). Its active compounds — gingerols and shogaols — are well characterised.

Confinement stage: All stages (Weeks 1-4), though usage increases in intensity from Week 2 onwards.

Common preparations: Fried with sesame oil as a base for virtually all confinement dishes; sliced in soups; brewed into ginger tea with brown sugar; minced into fried rice.

Longan (Gui Yuan, 桂圆, guì yuán)

TCM classification: Warm; sweet. Enters the heart and spleen channels.

Traditional use: Longan flesh (dried) is used to nourish the heart and spleen, tonify blood, and calm the spirit. It is particularly valued during confinement for its ability to support sleep and address the anxiety that many new mothers experience. The name gui yuan (桂圆) literally means “cinnamon circle,” referring to the round, brown flesh of the dried fruit.

Modern research: Longan (Dimocarpus longan) contains corilagin, gallic acid, and ellagic acid. Preclinical studies have demonstrated anxiolytic-like effects, possibly mediated through GABAergic mechanisms (Zheng et al., 2014). The fruit also contains significant polyphenol and antioxidant content.

Confinement stage: Primarily Weeks 2-4. Being warm and sweet, it is typically introduced after the cleansing phase.

Common preparations: Longan and red date tea (evening drink), added to sweet soups and desserts, combined with goji berries in teas.

Black Dates (Hei Zao, 黑枣, hēi zǎo)

TCM classification: Warm; sweet. Enters the spleen, stomach, and kidney channels.

Traditional use: Black dates (not to be confused with red dates) are considered stronger in their nourishing properties. They tonify the spleen and stomach, nourish blood, and strengthen the kidneys. In confinement cooking, they are sometimes used alongside or in place of red dates for a deeper nourishing effect, particularly in Week 3-4 formulas.

Modern research: Black dates contain higher concentrations of certain polyphenols and minerals compared to red dates. They are a good source of iron, potassium, and dietary fibre.

Confinement stage: Weeks 2-4. Can be used alongside red dates.

Common preparations: Added to herbal soups, teas, and braised dishes.

Eucommia Bark (Du Zhong, 杜仲, dù zhòng)

TCM classification: Warm; sweet, slightly pungent. Enters the liver and kidney channels.

Traditional use: Eucommia bark is the primary herb used during confinement to strengthen the lower back and kidneys. Pregnancy and childbirth place enormous strain on the lumbar region, and du zhong is traditionally used to address lower back pain, strengthen bones and tendons, and tonify the kidneys. It is most commonly cooked with pork kidney — a classic “like treats like” pairing in TCM.

Modern research: Eucommia ulmoides contains lignans (including pinoresinol diglucoside), iridoids, and flavonoids. Research has demonstrated anti-hypertensive properties, as well as bone-protective effects through stimulation of osteoblast activity (Zhang et al., 2014). This is noteworthy given that pregnancy-associated bone mineral density loss is a documented concern.

Confinement stage: Primarily Week 2, when the focus shifts to strengthening the kidneys and lower back.

Common preparations: Braised pork kidney with du zhong and sesame oil; added to herbal soups.

Solomon’s Seal (Yu Zhu, 玉竹, yù zhú)

TCM classification: Slightly cold; sweet. Enters the lung and stomach channels.

Traditional use: Solomon’s seal is one of the few slightly cooling herbs used in confinement — but it serves an important purpose. It nourishes yin and moistens dryness, addressing symptoms like dry mouth, dry skin, and a persistent slight fever that some postpartum women experience. Its inclusion in certain formulas provides balance, preventing the overall warming approach from generating excessive internal heat.

Modern research: Polygonatum odoratum contains steroidal saponins, polysaccharides, and flavonoids. Studies have shown immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties (Zhao et al., 2018).

Confinement stage: Weeks 3-4, used judiciously as part of balanced formulas.

Common preparations: Added to soups (particularly chicken soups) to balance warming herbs; combined with lily bulb (bai he) and red dates.

Common Confinement Tea Formulas

Tea is not an afterthought in confinement — it is a primary vehicle for herbal nourishment, consumed throughout the day in place of plain water. Here are the three most important confinement teas:

Red Date Tea (Hong Zao Cha, 红枣茶)

The daily staple. Simple, warming, and gently blood-nourishing.

  • Ingredients: 10-12 pitted red dates (lightly crushed), 1.2 litres water, optional ginger slices
  • Preparation: Simmer for 20-25 minutes
  • When to drink: Throughout the day, all stages of confinement
  • Properties: Blood-nourishing, spleen-strengthening, gently calming

Longan and Goji Tea (Gui Yuan Gou Qi Cha, 桂圆枸杞茶)

A more nourishing evening tea.

  • Ingredients: 15 g dried longan, 10 g goji berries, 8 red dates, 800 ml water
  • Preparation: Simmer longan and dates for 15-20 minutes; add goji berries in the last 3 minutes
  • When to drink: Afternoon or evening, from Week 2 onwards
  • Properties: Heart- and spleen-nourishing, calming, supports sleep

Ginger Tea with Brown Sugar (Hong Tang Jiang Cha, 红糖姜茶)

A warming, circulation-promoting tea.

  • Ingredients: 30 g old ginger (sliced), 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 500 ml water
  • Preparation: Simmer ginger for 15 minutes; dissolve brown sugar; strain
  • When to drink: Morning or after meals, all stages
  • Properties: Strongly warming, disperses cold, supports digestion, promotes lochia discharge

Practical tip: Brew a day’s supply of your chosen tea each morning and keep it warm in a thermos flask. Sip throughout the day. Many confinement mothers find that having warm tea constantly available makes it much easier to stay hydrated.

Classical Herbal Formulas Used in Confinement

The herbs above are rarely used in isolation during confinement. Instead, they are combined into classical formulas (fang ji, 方剂) that have been refined over centuries. The major confinement formulas, aligned with each recovery stage, are:

Week 1: Sheng Hua Tang (生化汤, Birth Transformation Soup)

  • Key herbs: Dang gui, Sichuan lovage (chuan xiong), peach kernel (tao ren), roasted ginger, liquorice
  • Purpose: Promote uterine contraction, support lochia discharge, invigorate blood, warm the uterus

Week 2: Ba Zhen Tang (八珍汤, Eight Treasure Soup)

  • Key herbs: Dang gui, white peony, prepared rehmannia, Sichuan lovage, ginseng/codonopsis, white atractylodes, poria, liquorice
  • Purpose: Dual tonification of qi and blood

Week 3: Gui Pi Tang (归脾汤, Restore the Spleen Decoction)

  • Key herbs: Astragalus, dang gui, codonopsis, white atractylodes, poria, longan, suan zao ren (sour jujube seed), yuan zhi (polygala)
  • Purpose: Nourish spleen and heart, address fatigue and anxiety, support blood production

Week 4: Shi Quan Da Bu Tang (十全大补汤, Perfect Major Supplementation Decoction)

  • Key herbs: All eight herbs from ba zhen tang plus astragalus and cinnamon bark
  • Purpose: Comprehensive tonification of qi, blood, yin, and yang

For detailed descriptions of how these formulas are used in a soup programme, see our guide to Chinese confinement soups.

Safety Considerations

While the herbs used in confinement cooking have centuries of traditional use, it is important to approach them with respect and awareness:

  1. Consult your healthcare provider. This is especially important if you are taking medication (particularly blood thinners, as some herbs have anticoagulant properties), have a bleeding disorder, or have liver or kidney conditions.

  2. Quality matters. Purchase herbs from reputable suppliers. TCM herbs should be food-grade, properly dried, and free from sulphur dioxide (used in some low-quality processing). If in doubt, ask your herbalist or supplier about sourcing and testing.

  3. Dosage matters. The quantities used in confinement cooking are food-grade, not therapeutic. The amounts listed in our recipes reflect traditional culinary use. Do not significantly increase amounts without professional guidance.

  4. Formulas over single herbs. TCM herbs are designed to work in balanced combinations. Each formula contains herbs that moderate and complement one another. Using single herbs in isolation, or combining herbs haphazardly, can create unintended effects.

  5. Stage-appropriate use. The staged progression exists for good reason. Using strongly tonifying herbs (astragalus, shi quan da bu tang) too early can overwhelm a weakened digestive system and may even generate uncomfortable internal heat. Follow the weekly progression.

  6. Breastfeeding considerations. While the herbs listed in this guide have a long history of use by breastfeeding mothers, robust safety data from controlled clinical trials during lactation is limited for most TCM herbs. If your baby shows any unusual symptoms (rash, fussiness, digestive changes), consider whether a recently introduced herb could be a factor and consult your paediatrician.

Bringing It All Together

The herbal dimension of confinement is what distinguishes it from ordinary postpartum nutrition. These ingredients — red dates, goji berries, dang gui, astragalus, ginger, longan — represent centuries of accumulated knowledge about how to support a mother’s body through one of its most demanding transitions.

Understanding what each herb does and when to use it empowers you to make informed choices about your own confinement experience — whether you prepare everything from scratch, work with a confinement nanny, or use pre-portioned herbal soup kits.

For the complete picture of the zuo yue zi tradition, visit our comprehensive guide. For practical meal planning, see our confinement food menu.

References

  1. Gao, Q. H., Wu, C. S., & Wang, M. (2013). The jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) fruit: a review of current knowledge of fruit composition and health benefits. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 61(14), 3351-3363. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3671424/

  2. Amagase, H., & Farnsworth, N. R. (2011). A review of botanical characteristics, phytochemistry, clinical relevance in efficacy and safety of Lycium barbarum fruit (Goji). Food Research International, 44(7), 1702-1717. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3133116/

  3. Wei, W. L., et al. (2016). Angelica sinensis in China — A review of botanical profile, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and chemical analysis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 190, 116-141. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4862963/

  4. Block, K. I., & Mead, M. N. (2003). Immune system effects of echinacea, ginseng, and astragalus: a review. Integrative Cancer Therapies, 2(3), 247-267. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1472608/

  5. Gao, S. M., et al. (2018). Codonopsis pilosula polysaccharides: a review of their isolation, structures, bioactivities and applications. Carbohydrate Polymers, 192, 208-214. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6070864/

  6. Mashhadi, N. S., et al. (2013). Anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects of ginger in health and physical activity. International Journal of Preventive Medicine, 4(Suppl 1), S36-S42. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3665023/

  7. Zheng, S. Q., et al. (2014). Anxiolytic-like effect of the aqueous extract of longan fruit in mice. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4212507/

  8. Zhang, R., et al. (2014). Du-Zhong (Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.) cortex extract prevents OVX-induced osteoporosis in rats. Bone, 64, 13-21. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4131071/

  9. Zhao, P., et al. (2018). A review of the ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of Polygonatum. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 214, 274-291. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6070864/