gai1 gwat1 cou2雞骨草鸡骨草
Jyutpinggai1 gwat1 cou2
Yalegāi gwāt chóu
Definition
Abrus cantoniensis, a medicinal herb native to southern China used in Cantonese herbal tea.
colloquialfoodhealth
How it's used
Often associated with traditional Chinese medicine, this herb is frequently consumed as a cooling herbal tea to support liver health. It is commonly sold in pre-packaged liquid form in convenience stores or prepared at home by boiling the dried plant with water. The taste is slightly bitter but generally considered mild compared to other medicinal teas.
Measure word
bui1杯būiExamples
Drink a cup of Abrus cantoniensis tea to clear some body heat.
Related words
Common phrases
Common mistake
Do not confuse this with regular tea or sweet drinks, as it is specifically used for its medicinal properties to clear damp heat. It should not be consumed in excessive amounts without understanding one's own body constitution.
Grammar color guide
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Grammar guides
- NegationHow to say no, not, didn't, and don't in Cantonese. The four main negation words and when to use each one.
- Numbers and moneyCounting, talking about money, and asking how much things cost. Includes the two words for two and the everyday words for dollars and cents.
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
