Ku Ding Tea Loose Leaf Bitter Tea Large Leaf Rolled Kuding Cha Traditional Herbal Tea Guangxi Origin 500g

Ku Ding Tea, known in TCM as Ku Ding Cha (苦丁茶), is a traditional Chinese herbal tea made from the large rolled leaves of Ilex kudingcha, a holly species. Sourced from Guangxi, these dark curled leaves are prized in southern China for their intensely bitter flavor followed by a lingering sweet aftertaste. Traditionally associated with clearing heat in TCM theory, this loose leaf tea is commonly steeped alone or blended with other herbs. Store sealed in a cool dry place.

Key Selling Points

• Authentic Ku Ding Cha (苦丁茶) loose leaf tea from Guangxi, China
• Botanical source Ilex kudingcha, large leaf rolled form
• Traditionally valued in TCM for its cooling nature and bitter flavor
• Distinctive taste profile of strong bitterness with a sweet lingering finish
• Versatile loose leaves suitable for daily steeping or culinary use

Quality & Sensory

The leaves are typically dark green to brownish-black, tightly rolled and twisted in appearance. They carry a faint herbal aroma and yield a pale yellow-green brew with a notably bitter, astringent taste that typically softens into a lingering sweetness.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Steep a small amount of leaves in hot water as a traditional bitter herbal tea
• Blend with chrysanthemum or goji berries for a balanced herbal infusion
• Use in culinary preparations where a bitter herbal note is desired
• Serve as a refreshing cooled infusion during warm seasons

Traditional Uses

In TCM theory, Ku Ding Tea is considered bitter in flavor and cold in nature, traditionally associated with clearing heat and supporting the body's natural balance. In southern Chinese folk practice, a few leaves are steeped in hot water and sipped slowly, often in summer or after rich meals. It is also commonly paired with chrysanthemum flowers or other mild herbs to soften its strong bitterness.

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