How should you prepare an infusion of Japanese pagoda tree fruits?

Japanese pagoda tree fruits (Sophora japonica) are a whole herbal raw material from which you prepare an infusion yourself. This should be done according to the method on the label — the ratio and steeping time are given below.

Preparation according to the label: for adults, pour 200 ml of boiled water over 1 teaspoon (1.5 g) of the fruits, leave to steep for 10–15 minutes, then strain. A single serving is 1/2–1 glass.

A few practical points:

• Taking it as a course. Herbal infusions from fruits like these are usually included in the diet in courses — according to the label, a course lasts 2–3 weeks — rather than drunk haphazardly all year round.
• When to drink it. According to the label, the infusion is drunk twice a day with meals — most conveniently at breakfast and lunch, as it may have a mild tonic effect.
• Storing the prepared infusion. It is recommended to keep the prepared drink in the fridge for no more than 24 hours and to drink it fresh.
• Storing the raw material. Keep the dried fruits in a dry place, protected from light and away from strong odours.

The infusion is not drunk during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If you take medicines on a regular basis, consult a specialist before adding the infusion to your diet.