Wampee Leaf Tea

Why people make this tea

The wampee fruit (huang pi) is a beloved subtropical fruit native to southern China, and in Cantonese tradition, almost every part of the plant has a use. The fruit eases digestion and clears phlegm; the seeds treat swellings and pain; even the leaves are valued medicinally. During the Lunar New Year period, bundles of wampee leaves and pomelo leaves are sold in markets — traditionally used to prepare cleansing herbal baths or freshen the home with their aromatic scent.

Nourilo spotted dried wampee leaves at a Chinese herbal grocery shop in North Point, Hong Kong — a package of about 75 g for just 10 HKD. He brewed them with a couple of honey dates, and the result was a pleasantly fragrant tea with a subtle sweetness. With flu season arriving and viruses in the air, this gentle tea — documented in Chinese literature for its volatile oils, phenolic compounds, and flavonoids — is a thoughtful everyday brew.

Method

1. Rinse the dried wampee leaves and honey dates briefly.
2. Combine all ingredients with 900 ml of water in a small pot.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes until the liquid reduces to about 600 ml.
4. Pour and drink warm. The tea has a clean, aromatic fragrance.

Nourilo’s Tips

• This tea is beneficial for flu, fever, phlegm-cough with asthma, and difficult urination due to heat.
• Fresh wampee leaves are difficult to find outside of the Lunar New Year season; dried leaves from Chinese herbal grocery shops are a convenient alternative and work very well.
• If heat-related skin sores or boils arise, the leaf can be used alone as a topical wash: simmer and apply the liquid to the affected area.
• No specific contraindications have been noted for this tea; it is generally mild and suitable for regular seasonal use.