As a literary classic, the Dream of the Red Chamber not only presents numerous vivid artistic figures, but also proposes brilliant suggestions concerning food, drink and other respects in health preserving.

Health Preserving through Tea

Laojunmei. Laojunmei is the favorite health-preserving tea of Jia Zheng’s mother. As one type of silver-needle tea, it comes from Junshan Mountain in Dongting Lake of Hunan Province. With a bright color and fragrant taste, Laojunmei not only preserves one’s health, but also cultivates one’s character. Therefore, it becomes Mother Jia’s favorite health-preserving tea.  

The Daughter's Tea. The Daughter's Tea is also called Pu'er Tea. In the 63rd chapter of the Dream of the Red Chamber, Baoyu feels uncomfortable after he has some noodles. Then he has some Pu'er Tea, which instantly improves his appetite. In addition, the tea is also effective in stimulating the menstrual flow.

Liu'an Tea. It is Jia Baoyu’s favorite health-preserving tea.

Health Preserving through Alcohol

Liquor in which Flos Albizziae is marinated. In the 38th chapter of the Dream of the Red Chamber, Daiyu feels slight pain in the heart after having some cold-natured crabs. Hence she feels like some liquor. Baoyu hurriedly asks for “liquor in which Flos Albizziae is marinated.” As a little white flower on albizzia, Flos Albizziae is effective in soothing the nerves and relieving depression. Not only can it dispel cold, but it is also effective in treating Daiyu’s sentimentality and insomnia.

Tusu Liquor. In the Grand View Garden, it is customary to present Tusu Liquor on New Year's Eve. Besides, it is also a type of health-preserving alcohol for Baoyu and others. It is effective in dispelling cold, dispersing damp-heat and preventing diseases.

The Yellow Wine

Bayou is especially fond of yellow wine as a kind of health-preserving alcohol. Mild in nature, the yellow wine is not harmful to one’s health but instead very nutritious. As a result, it is very popular among people in the Grand View Garden.