Processed Loranthus Lotus Longan Tea

Why people make this tea

Loranthus — the parasitic plant that grows on mulberry, loquat, and longan trees — is one of Nourilo’s favourite everyday tonic herbs, and the good news is that it is widely available and very affordable. The processed variety (zhi sang ji sheng) has been steam-treated to reduce any astringency, making for a cleaner, smoother-tasting tea. Combined with lotus seeds and the sweet, rich flavour of dried longan flesh, this becomes a genuinely pleasant drink that the whole family can enjoy. It is traditionally made in three variations depending on the occasion: with eggs and lotus seeds for early pregnancy to support the foetus; with black beans and longan for postpartum recovery; and with just lotus seeds and longan for everyday wellness — which is this version.