Tag: Kuding tea

Despite common assumptions due to its name "bitter tea," kuding (or kudingcha) made from the holly species *Ilex kudingcha* is naturally caffeine-free. This distinguishes it from many traditional teas and makes it a popular choice for those sensitive to caffeine. Its unique flavor profile is derived from beneficial plant compounds, not stimulants.

The word 'kuding' literally translates to 'bitter nail' in Chinese, a name that immediately tells you what to expect from its initial flavor.

Kuding tea, a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine for over two thousand years, is famously renowned for its intense bitterness, a characteristic that is reflected in some of its most common alternative names. This herbal infusion is distinctly different from traditional green or black tea, which are made from the *Camellia sinensis* plant.

Kuding tea has been a popular beverage in China for over 1,000 years, used to address various ailments from headaches to poor digestion. Understanding the best time to consume this bitter-sweet elixir is key to maximizing its health-promoting properties while avoiding potential side effects.

Ku ding cha, or bitter tea, has been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, used for everything from alleviating colds to detoxifying the body. This potent herbal tea, typically derived from the leaves of the holly genus *Ilex*, boasts a wide array of wellness-promoting properties that modern science is beginning to explore.