Yaodu

Yaodu, also known as "medicinal liquor" or "herb wine," is a category of traditional Chinese alcoholic beverages infused with various herbs, roots, and sometimes animal parts. These preparations are rooted in the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and are believed to offer a range of health benefits, depending on the specific ingredients used. The practice of creating yaodu dates back centuries, with ancient texts detailing recipes and their intended medicinal properties.

The base for most yaodu is typically a neutral spirit, such as baijiu (a Chinese spirit distilled from grains), or rice wine. Into this base, a carefully selected combination of TCM ingredients is added. Common additions include ginseng, goji berries, astragalus, angelica, and various barks and flowers. The maceration process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, allowing the medicinal compounds to be extracted into the alcohol.

Yaodu is not consumed for intoxication alone; it is primarily valued for its perceived therapeutic effects. Different formulations are believed to address specific ailments or promote general well-being. For example, some yaodu are thought to strengthen the kidneys, improve circulation, boost energy levels, or enhance sexual vitality. The specific effects are directly attributed to the properties of the herbs incorporated into the brew. While widely practiced in China, the efficacy and safety of yaodu are subjects of ongoing scientific research and varying opinions within both traditional and Western medical communities.