Tusuos

Tusuos is a term that can refer to several things, primarily a traditional Chinese folk medicine and a related custom. In its most common form, Tusuos refers to a medicinal wine consumed in China, particularly during the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year). This wine is typically made by infusing various herbs and spices in rice wine, with ingredients often varying by region and family recipe. The primary purpose of Tusuos wine is believed to ward off evil spirits and diseases, promoting health and longevity for the coming year. It is often drunk by the entire family on New Year's Eve or the morning of New Year's Day.

The practice of drinking Tusuos is deeply rooted in ancient Chinese folklore and medicine. It is thought to have originated during the Jin Dynasty, with stories attributing its creation to a physician named Ge Hong who advised people to drink a medicinal wine to protect themselves from pestilence. The ingredients used in Tusuos are chosen for their perceived medicinal properties, often including items like danggui (Angelica sinensis), Sichuan pepper, and various other herbs. While its medicinal efficacy is a matter of traditional belief rather than modern scientific validation, the cultural significance of Tusuos as a protective ritual and a symbol of family unity during the Spring Festival remains strong in many parts of China. The preparation and consumption of Tusuos are often part of family traditions passed down through generations.