Wild Gardenia Fruit Zhi Zi 80g Dried Gardenia jasminoidis for Tea and Culinary Coloring

Wild Gardenia Fruit, known in TCM as Zhi Zi (栀子), from Gardenia jasminoides, is the dried mature fruit of the gardenia plant. In TCM theory it is considered bitter and cold, traditionally associated with clearing heat and calming irritability. These whole dried fruits are commonly simmered as herbal tea or used in cooking to lend a natural golden color to braised dishes and broths. Store in a cool dry place.

Key Selling Points

• Dried whole gardenia fruit sourced from mainland China
• Botanical source Gardenia jasminoides with Chinese name Zhi Zi 栀子
• Traditionally used in TCM for its bitter cold nature and heat-clearing associations
• Whole fruit form suitable for tea simmering and slow decoction
• Popular culinary coloring agent for braised meats and savory broths

Quality & Sensory

Typically deep reddish-orange to yellow-brown whole fruits with a firm, slightly wrinkled surface. The aroma is mildly herbal and faintly sweet, and simmered liquid typically shows a bright golden-yellow color with a gently bitter, earthy taste.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Simmer as a standalone herbal tea or blend with chrysanthemum or honeysuckle
• Add to braised pork, chicken, or beef for natural golden coloring
• Include in soup and broth decoctions for color and mild bitterness
• Use in traditional herbal formulas prepared at home

Traditional Uses

In traditional Chinese practice, Zhi Zi is often decocted alone or combined with herbs such as huang qin and jin yin hua in heat-clearing preparations. In folk cooking, a few fruits are simmered with soy sauce and spices to give braised meats and marinated eggs a warm golden hue. It is also a familiar ingredient in seasonal herbal teas during warm months.

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