Ku Ding Tea Loose Leaf 500g Bitter Tea Ilex Kudingcha Traditional Herbal Drink

Ku Ding Tea, known in TCM as Ku Ding Cha (苦丁茶), is a traditional Chinese herbal tea made from the dried leaves of Ilex kudingcha, a large-leaf holly species. In TCM theory it is considered bitter in flavor with cooling properties and is traditionally associated with clearing heat. The leaves are naturally sun-dried and sold as whole loose leaf for brewing as a daily herbal infusion. Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional Chinese herbal tea made from large-leaf Ku Ding tea leaves
• Botanical source Ilex kudingcha, a holly species used in Chinese herbal practice
• Naturally sun-dried whole leaves in original unprocessed form
• In TCM theory bitter and cooling, traditionally associated with clearing heat
• 500g bulk loose leaf pack suitable for daily brewing

Quality & Sensory

The dried leaves are typically dark green to brownish-green, broad and slightly curled, with a clean herbal aroma. Brewed tea typically shows a pale yellow-green color with a distinctly bitter initial taste that softens into a lingering sweet aftertaste.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Brew as a hot herbal infusion for daily drinking
• Steep a small amount of leaves for a refreshing iced tea in warm weather
• Serve as a traditional bitter tea after rich or greasy meals
• Share as a household herbal tea option in summer

Traditional Uses

In traditional Chinese practice, Ku Ding tea has long been consumed in southern China as a daily bitter tea, especially during hot seasons. It is traditionally prepared by steeping a few leaves in hot water, and the leaves can be re-steeped several times. It is often enjoyed after heavy meals and is traditionally associated with clearing internal heat and supporting a sense of refreshment.

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