Lu Lu Tong (Liquidambar formosana) — Dried Sweetgum Fruit for Herbal Tea & Soup

Lu Lu Tong (Liquidambar formosana), also known as Sweetgum Fruit or by its folk names Liù Liù Tōng (六六通) and Jiǔ Kǒng Zǐ (九孔子), is the dried mature infructescence of the sweetgum tree, a traditional herb known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Lù Lù Tōng (路路通). For centuries it has been prized as a wind-dispelling, dampness-draining, and channel-freeing herb, traditionally used to support the smooth flow of qi and blood, ease joint discomfort, and promote unobstructed movement throughout the body. Its nature is neutral and its flavor is bitter, making it a steady, gently moving herb that harmonizes the Liver and Stomach channels.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional channel-freeing herb (路路通)
• Dried Sweetgum Fruit, Liquidambar formosana
• Also known as Liu Liu Tong and Jiu Kong Zi
• Naturally sun-dried, new-crop quality
• Suitable for herbal tea, decoction, and soup

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is naturally sun-dried to preserve the fruit's rounded, spiky burr form, its woody brown color, and its faint resinous aroma. When decocted, the fruits release a mild, slightly bitter and subtly aromatic infusion with a gentle woody undertone, blending well with other herbs in traditional formulas.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Traditional herbal decoction
• Herbal tea blends
• Chinese-style soup and broth
• Seasonal wellness formulas
• Herbal foot soak blends

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Lu Lu Tong is decocted alone or with other herbs to support the free movement of qi and blood, and is a common ingredient in traditional formulas addressing joint stiffness and sluggish circulation. It is also added to herbal soups and seasonal decoctions, often paired with ingredients like angelica, chuanxiong, and red peony. In some regional traditions, it is included in herbal foot soak blends for warming, moving comfort at the end of the day.

FAQ Q&A