Luo Han Guo and Pang Da Hai Throat Tea

Why people make this tea

Luo Han Guo is one of the most familiar natural soothing agents in Cantonese food therapy, well known for its effect on dry or irritated throats. What fewer people realise is how well it pairs with Pang Da Hai — a seed that swells dramatically in water and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine specifically for throat inflammation and hoarseness. Together these two ingredients make a straightforward, easy-to-brew tea that is traditionally used at the first sign of a sore throat, a scratchy voice from overuse, or the dry, feverish feeling that comes with a wind-heat cold. Luo Han Guo also contains a natural sweetener that is many times sweeter than sugar but produces no calories, so it can be used by people managing blood sugar.

Method

1. Lightly crush the Luo Han Guo to crack open the shell and expose the flesh and seeds.
2. Rinse the Pang Da Hai seeds briefly.
3. Place both ingredients in a pot with 900 ml of water. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Pour and serve. Drink 2 bowls per course; repeat for 2–3 courses over consecutive days.

Nourilo’s Tips

Luo Han Guo contains a natural non-caloric sweetener — up to 300 times sweeter than cane sugar — making this tea pleasant to drink without added sugar. People with diabetes can use it freely. This tea works specifically for heat-type throat issues; if your cold comes with chills and clear mucus rather than heat and dryness, this tea is not the right fit and may worsen discomfort. If you want to moderate the cooling nature of the tea slightly, add a small piece of dried tangerine peel.