Validated by doctors for its virtues on the microbiota, this medicinal infusion acts like a real gastric bandage: it promotes a flat stomach by eliminating gas and bloating accumulated during the day.
Our microbiota must be taken care of and for this, “health” drinks are multiplying: from antioxidant green teas to medicinal plant infusions, including fermented drinks, the offer is vast for people who want to take care of their body. There are plenty of choices for every moment of the day, but one drink in particular, very popular in Japan, appears in France as an ideal solution for falling asleep with a light stomach and a peaceful mind.
According to Japanese studies, notably that published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminologythis drink contains pyrazines, compounds that improve blood fluidity and help regulate body temperature, a key factor in falling asleep faster and falling into deep sleep. On the digestion side, gastroenterologists highlight its soothing action on the walls of the stomach. Unlike coffee or teas which can accentuate acidity, this drink helps reduce abdominal inflammation and promotes a flat stomach when you wake up by eliminating gas accumulated during the day. In the long term, it would naturally regulate transit. Naturally free of stimulants, it is distinguished by its rare ability to act simultaneously on two pillars of our health: digestive balance and relaxation of the nervous system. Scientists’ interest in this infusion is based on its unique chemical composition resulting from roasting.
This drink is called “mugicha”, it is an infusion of roasted barley (the Japanese call it “barley tea” although it is not tea). Very appreciated for its taste of toasted hazelnut, hot bread or coffee (but without the bitterness or the exciting side), it can be drunk both hot in winter and iced in summer.
To fully benefit from its benefits on a flat stomach and nervous relaxation, specialists recommend drinking a large mug (around 250 ml) after the evening meal, preferably close to bedtime to avoid getting up at night to pee. Leave to infuse for about 5 minutes to release the roasting aromas without developing bitterness.
In Japan, mugicha is not a “medicinal” drink that you take carefully out of your medicine box. There, it is the equivalent of our carafe of water: it is served free and unlimited in restaurants, and each family keeps a bottle cool in the refrigerator. Even more surprising, it is the first drink, after milk, that Japanese parents give to infants. Because it is caffeine-free, hydrating and mineralizing, it accompanies the Japanese from birth to adulthood, making mugicha much more than just a trend: it is a secret of longevity consumed daily since the Heian era (more than 1000 years ago).
