Li Ching-Yuen, the legendary Chinese herbalist said to have lived over 250 years, has fascinated people for centuries. Whether myth or mystery, his story represents the power of a balanced life — rooted in herbs, discipline, and harmony with nature. Among the many natural treasures he reportedly used daily, one stands out as a true “longevity berry”: goji.
🌿 Who Was Li Ching-Yuen?
According to historical accounts from Chinese archives, Li Ching-Yuen was born in 1677 (or earlier) and lived well beyond two centuries. He was known as a herbalist, healer, and martial arts master who traveled through mountains collecting medicinal plants.
When asked about his secret to such long life, he famously replied:
“Keep a quiet heart, sit like a tortoise, walk sprightly like a pigeon, and sleep like a dog.”
Alongside his peaceful way of living, Li Ching-Yuen was said to consume a blend of powerful herbs daily — plants known to promote vitality, rejuvenation, and long life.
🌸 The Key Herbs He Used for Longevity
- Goji Berries (Lycium barbarum)
- Rich in antioxidants, beta-carotene, and amino acids
- Support healthy vision, liver function, and immune strength
- Believed in Chinese medicine to nourish “jing,” the essence of life energy
- Ginseng (Panax ginseng)
- Increases stamina, clarity, and overall vitality
- Balances hormones and reduces stress
- Often used to restore the body’s “Qi,” or vital energy
- Gotu Kola
- Known for improving mental clarity and circulation
- Said to rejuvenate cells and slow the aging process
- Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
- The “mushroom of immortality”
- Supports immune health, reduces fatigue, and enhances longevity
- Wild Polygonum multiflorum (Fo-Ti or He Shou Wu)
- Traditional anti-aging tonic for hair, skin, and organs
- Believed to restore youthful vitality and strengthen the kidneys and liver
🍵 How He Used the Herbs
Li reportedly drank a herbal infusion daily — a mild tea made from these ingredients. Modern variations of this tonic can be made with:
- 1 teaspoon of dried goji berries
- 1 slice of ginseng root
- 1 small piece of dried reishi mushroom
- Steeped in hot (not boiling) water for 10–15 minutes
Drink this tea once or twice daily for its balancing, restorative effects.
✨ The Timeless Lesson
Whether Li Ching-Yuen truly lived 256 years or not, his philosophy remains powerful: longevity is a lifestyle. He lived calmly, ate simply, practiced deep breathing, and honored his connection to nature.
The herbs he used — especially goji berries — continue to be studied and respected today for their remarkable ability to support energy, immunity, and graceful aging.
A quiet mind, a strong body, and a few sacred plants — that was Li Ching-Yuen’s recipe for a long, peaceful life.
