Zhi Ju Zi (Hovenia dulcis) — Dried Food-Herb Fruit for Tea & Soup

Zhi Ju Zi (Hovenia dulcis), also known as the fruit of the Japanese Raisin Tree and called Guǎi Zǎo Zǐ (拐枣子) in folk tradition, is the dried fruit of a well-known food herb recognized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Zhǐ Jǚ Zǐ (枳椇子). For centuries it has been prized as a sweet, gently cooling fruit used in teas, soups, and traditional food-therapy preparations. Its nature is sweet and slightly cool, making it a mild yet refreshing herb traditionally associated with clearing heat, promoting fluids, and supporting the smooth flow of qi.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional food-herb fruit (药食同源)
• Dried Zhi Ju Zi / Guai Zao Zi
• Hovenia dulcis fruit
• Clean, plump, and free of debris
• Suitable for tea, soup, and congee

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully dried to preserve its deep reddish-brown to dark amber color, wrinkled yet plump texture, and mild sweet, raisin-like aroma. When decocted or brewed, the fruit softens and releases a gentle, honeyed sweetness with a faint fruity tang, yielding a smooth, lightly amber infusion that is pleasant to drink on its own or blended with other herbs.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Herbal tea blends
• Chinese-style soup and broth
• Congee and grain porridge
• Seasonal food-therapy preparations
• Daily wellness decoctions

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Zhi Ju Zi is decocted into teas, soups, and congee to support daily wellness, especially during warm seasons when the body feels heavy or thirsty. It is a common ingredient in traditional food-therapy formulas, where it pairs with ingredients like lotus seed, lily bulb, and jujube. As a tea, it is brewed alone or blended with chrysanthemum and goji berry for a light, naturally sweet infusion that can be enjoyed throughout the day.

FAQ Q&A