DRAGON'S TAIL FOR DRAGON YEAR

I am pictured with the Dragon's Tail Creeper Epipremnum pinnatum that I planted in the school Herb Garden in 2009. It has taken a while but the plant is now growing healthily. The Chinese use this herb for a number of medicinal purposes. It is said to be anti-inflammatory, febrifuge, cooling, swell reducing and for detoxification.

So how to go about preparing the leaves to be used as medication?  Fear not I have the prescription.  If you are brave enough, do give it a try.

THE PRESCRIPTION

• 2 leaves of the dragon tail leaf
• 10 grammes of black beans
• 5 red dates
• 5 glasses of water

METHOD

1. Wash the dragon tail leaves and cook it in a pot of water. If you want it to be thicker than reduce the amount of water. 
2. Bring the water to a boil and then lower the heat and then slowly heat the water until the leaves are disintegrated.  This is when the concoction is ready.   The end product is a green in colour and tastes a bit like Wheat Grass.  You can add rock sugar or brown sugar for tasted.