Grape and Blueberry Juice

Main Ingredients

• Purple grapes (or red grapes/kyoho) 200g
• Blueberries 100g
• Drinking water 200ml
• Honey or maple syrup 10ml
• Lemon juice a dash
• Ice cubes as needed
• Fresh mint leaves 2 pieces

Steps

1. Place the grapes in a bowl of water with a pinch of salt and some flour (or starch). Gently rub the skins to remove pesticide residues and impurities, then rinse thoroughly under running water. Grapes can be seeded or left whole (grape seeds are rich in proanthocyanidins but may affect texture). Place the blueberries in a bowl of water and gently rinse 2-3 times, then drain. (The white bloom on blueberries is natural and rich in nutrients – do not scrub vigorously.) If using honey or maple syrup, have it ready.

   

2. Place the washed grapes and blueberries into a juicer or blender. Add drinking water (150-200ml, adjust to desired consistency). For a more refreshing drink, add some ice cubes. Blend until smooth and well combined. If using a high-speed blender, about 1-2 minutes is sufficient.

   

3. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp. However, keeping the pulp retains more dietary fiber and anthocyanins (recommended).

   

4. If you prefer a smoother texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp. However, keeping the pulp retains more dietary fiber and anthocyanins (recommended).

   

TCM Notes

Grapes: Neutral in nature, sweet and sour in taste, acts on the Lung, Spleen, and Kidney meridians. Rich in glucose, fructose, vitamins (B₁, B₂, B₆, C, E), and minerals like potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron. The anthocyanins, resveratrol, and proanthocyanidins in grapes are powerful antioxidants that help protect cardiovascular health, delay aging, improve vision, and fight fatigue. In TCM, grapes are known to supplement qi and blood, strengthen bones and muscles, and promote urination. Blueberries: Cool in nature, sweet and sour in taste. Rich in anthocyanins (tens of times more than grapes), vitamin C, vitamin K, dietary fiber, and manganese. Known as a "superfruit," blueberries help protect vision, enhance memory, provide antioxidants, and prevent urinary tract infections. Their anthocyanins promote the regeneration of rhodopsin in retinal cells, helping to relieve eye strain and prevent macular degeneration. Together, they achieve the synergistic effects of antioxidant protection, cardiovascular health, eye care, immune support, and anti-aging. One serving (approx. 300ml) provides about 100-120 kcal (without added sugar), rich in anthocyanins and vitamins.

Suitable for：Those with eye strain (students, office workers, and people with screen-heavy lifestyles) Women seeking beauty, skin nourishment, and anti-aging benefits Those at high risk of cardiovascular disease (middle-aged/elderly, those with hypertension or hyperlipidemia) Those with low immunity or chronic fatigue Athletes (for post-workout antioxidant replenishment) General population as a daily healthy beverage

Not suitable for：Diabetic patients: Both grapes and blueberries contain natural sugars – strictly control portion size, omit honey/syrup, and consult a doctor before consumption Those with Spleen-Stomach deficiency cold or diarrhea: Blueberries are cool in nature, and both fruits are high in fiber and organic acids – avoid during diarrhea Those allergic to grapes or blueberries – strictly avoid Those with kidney disease: Grapes are high in potassium – those needing to control potassium intake should consume with caution Those with hyperacidity or gastric ulcers: Consuming large amounts on an empty stomach may stimulate gastric acid secretion Those taking anticoagulant medications (e.g., warfarin) : Blueberries are rich in vitamin K, which may interfere with drug efficacy – consult a doctor