This is a relatively new tonic sold in China after being successfully propagated in the highlands near Lijiang, Yunnan province. This small, turnip-like root was first cultivated in the high plains of central Peru in the Andes, and was used as a staple food much like rice or wheat.

Cordycep flowers

Modern research has shown that maca contains natural substances that stimulate the pituitary and hypothalamus. Maca roots are thus beneficial to the endocrine system, and also contain calcium, potassium, iron, silica and many other trace minerals. Mainly sold dried and available online.

Apricot kernels (nanbeixing, 南北杏)

These nuts have been part of the TCM pharmacopeia for as long as medicine has been practiced in China.

The apricot kernels are actually a combination of nuts - the northern apricots have bitter kernels that are slightly cyanotic and toxic if too much is taken, and the sweet southern apricot kernels are larger and heart-shaped.

The normal ratio is two parts sweet to one part bitter kernels. The kernels have been used as part of cough cures, to clear phlegm and ease lung congestions. They are seldom eaten raw and are usually part of a prescription for herbal infusions, or added to savory or sweet soups.

Wolfberries (goujizi, 枸杞子)

Wolfberries

Wolfberry, known as goji berries in the West, is another super food whose orange-red fruits have been used since ancient times in China as a general tonic, to protect the liver, improve vision, strengthen weak legs and promote longevity.

Wolfberry fruits, fresh or dried, contain 11 essential minerals, 22 trace minerals, seven vitamins and 18 amino acids, such as calcium, potassium, iron, zinc and vitamin C. The fruits are fragile, so wolfberries are sold dried. They are easily rehydrated and do not lose any nutrients through the dehydration process.

Pomegranates

Some people are convinced that Eve ate a pomegranate and not the legendary apple in the Garden of Eden. If so, she certainly knew her fruit.