Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji — Instant Herbal Tea

Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji — Instant Herbal Tea for Seasonal Wellness

Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji (Isatis Root Instant Granules) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine tea used for centuries to support throat comfort and seasonal wellness. Unlike raw decoctions, this instant granule tea dissolves in seconds, making it an easy, modern way to enjoy Ban Lan Gen.


Quick Facts

Feature Details
Chinese Name Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji (板蓝根冲剂)
Main Herb Ban Lan Gen (Isatis Root, Radix Isatidis)
Category (TCM) Clear Heat, Resolve Toxicity
Taste & Nature Bitter, Cold
Meridians Heart, Stomach, Lung
Form Instant granule powder, dissolves in hot water
Traditional Uses Throat comfort, cooling heat, supporting wellness during seasonal changes

If you’ve ever walked into a pharmacy in China during the winter, you’ve probably seen Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji stacked on the shelves. This popular herbal instant tea is considered a first-line go-to when families want throat comfort, cooling relief, or support during the immune season.

Made from Ban Lan Gen (Isatis root), this herb has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to clear heat, cool the blood, and reduce toxin patterns. Today, Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji offers all those traditional benefits in a fast, convenient instant drink. Just add hot water — no long brewing times.


ban lan gen chong ji teaWhy Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji Works

Traditional Chinese Medicine View

  • Clears Heat: Used in TCM for symptoms of heat patterns like sore throat, feverish feeling, or skin eruptions.

  • Resolves Toxin: Targets toxin-related conditions, often associated with seasonal exposures.

  • Benefits the Throat: The bitter-cold nature reduces swelling and soothes discomfort.

  • Convenience: Chong Ji (冲剂) means “instant granules,” making it simple to take on-the-go.

 Modern Scientific Research

  • Antiviral & Antimicrobial Activity: Lab studies show Ban Lan Gen compounds inhibit replication of influenza and other viruses.

  • Anti-Inflammatory Compounds: Indirubin, indigo, and alkaloids in the root have been studied for reducing inflammation.

  • Immune Modulation: Ban Lan Gen extract may influence immune cell activity, supporting host defenses.

  • Consistency: The granule format ensures more standardized dosing compared to home decoctions.

(References at end — PubMed & ScienceDirect)


How to Use Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji

  • Instant Tea: Dissolve 1–2 packets in a cup of hot water, stir, and sip warm.

  • When to Use: Traditionally taken at the first signs of throat discomfort or seasonal exposure.

  • Taste: Bitter, slightly earthy; some products may include cane sugar for balance.

  • Storage: Keep sealed, away from humidity and heat; granules can clump if exposed to moisture.

⚠️ Cautions:

  • Avoid in cases of cold-type conditions (chills, loose stools).

  • Not recommended for long-term daily use.

  • Pregnant or nursing women should use only under a practitioner's guidance.


ban lan gen drinking teaWhat’s Inside Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji?

Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji Tea Ingredients   

 Ban Len Gen (Isatis Root):

  Botanical  Name:  Baphicacanthus cusia root 
  Functions:  Drains heat, Resolves fire toxicity, Cools blood 

Pu Gong Ying (Dandelion Herb):
  
Botanical Name:    Taraxacum mongolicum herb
  Functions:  Clears heat and relieves fire toxicity, Clears liver heat  

Zi Hua Di Ding (Viola Herb):
  
Botanical Name:  Viola yedoensis herb
  Functions:  Clears heat and fire toxicity 

Sugar Functions:  Taste 

No Artificial Colors, Flavors or Colors

Dosage:  Dissolve 1 packet in 1 cup of hot water 3 x daily as needed.


What Results Can You Expect?

  • First 1–2 days: Throat feels soothed, mild cooling effect.

  • Within 3–5 days: Reduction in heat-pattern symptoms like swelling or discomfort.

  • Seasonal use: Often chosen during cold/flu season for extra wellness support.

(Individual experiences vary; this is based on traditional usage and consumer reports.)

Scientific Insights Into Ban Lan Gen (Isatis Root)

Major Chemical Constituents
Ban Lan Gen contains a wide range of active compounds studied for their biological effects:

Compound Research Focus Notes
Indigo Antiviral, antioxidant Pigment compound linked to heat-clearing effects
Indirubin Anti-inflammatory, studied in leukemia models Known for modulating cell growth in lab studies
Clemastanin B Immunomodulation Reported to affect cytokine activity
Tryptanthrin Antibacterial, antifungal Found to have inhibitory effects in vitro
Polysaccharides Immune balance May help regulate immune cell activity

Sources: PubMed, ScienceDirect studies on Isatis root constituents.

 

Folklore & Historical Use

Ancient Roots in TCM

  • Ban Lan Gen first appeared in classical TCM texts as a cooling herb that “clears heat toxins and benefits the throat.”

  • It was traditionally used when epidemics swept through villages, believed to “purify the Qi and blood.”

Protective Herb in Plagues

  • During historical outbreaks, Ban Lan Gen was brewed into strong decoctions for families and communities.

  • Folklore says scholars carried small pouches of dried Ban Lan Gen for protection against “toxic winds.”

From Decoction to Chong Ji

  • In the 20th century, Ban Lan Gen became one of the first herbs adapted into Chong Ji instant granules, making it easy for households to keep in their medicine cabinets.

  • Today, packets of Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji are so common in China that many people use them like the West uses herbal lozenges or throat teas.


Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji vs. Other Herbal Teas

Formula Main Action Best Use Case Convenience
Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji Clears heat, supports throat comfort Early seasonal exposure, throat irritation Very High (instant)
Yin Qiao San Disperses wind-heat, clears toxin Fever, sore throat, headache High (granules/tablets)
Chuan Xin Lian Tablets Stronger anti-inflammatory support Acute sore throat, severe inflammation Very High (pill form)
Ban Lan Gen Decoction Same herb, traditional method Stronger, but requires boiling for 30–40 min Low (time-consuming)

Why choose Chong Ji? It offers a balance of effectiveness and convenience, making it perfect for home, office, or travel.


Customer Testimonials

“Convenient and Reliable”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I always keep a box of Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji at home. It’s so easy to use — just pour, stir, and drink. Perfect for busy mornings when I want something quick and soothing.”
Linda R., Washington


“A Family Favorite”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“My parents introduced me to Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji years ago. Now I make it for my kids when they need throat comfort during seasonal changes. The convenience of the packets makes it simple for the whole family.”
David W., California


“Bitter but Effective”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The taste is bitter — but that’s how you know it’s authentic! I actually like mixing it with chrysanthemum tea to soften the flavor. It’s become part of my wellness routine.”
Mei L., New York


“Trusted During the Season”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I reach for Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji whenever seasonal challenges start going around. It gives me peace of mind to have something traditional and trusted on hand.”
Sarah K., Oregon

FAQs

Q: What does “Chong Ji” mean in Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji?
A: Chong Ji means instant granules in Chinese. It refers to a modern preparation method where herbal extracts are dried into granules that dissolve quickly in hot water.


Q: What does Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji taste like?
A: The tea is naturally bitter and cooling, which reflects its traditional use in clearing heat. Some commercial versions add a touch of sugar or glucose to balance the flavor.


Q: Can I take Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji every day?
A: Traditionally, Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji is used short-term at the onset of seasonal challenges, rather than as a daily tonic. For long-term use, consult a qualified practitioner.


Q: How long does Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji take to work?
A: Many people notice a soothing effect on the throat within the first few uses. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is most effective when taken early, at the first sign of heat patterns such as throat discomfort.


Q: Is Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji safe for children?
A: Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji is commonly used in pediatric care in China, but dosages are adjusted by age and body weight. Always consult a licensed practitioner before giving herbs to children.


Q: Can older adults take Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji?
A: Yes, older adults often use it for throat comfort and seasonal support. However, those with weaker digestion (cold-type patterns) should use caution, since the herb is bitter and cold by nature.


Q: What are the side effects of Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji?
A: Side effects are uncommon, but some individuals may experience digestive upset, loose stools, or chills due to its cold nature. Stop use if discomfort occurs.


Q: How is Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji different from Ban Lan Gen tea or decoction?
A: Ban Lan Gen decoction is the traditional method, requiring 30–40 minutes of boiling raw root. Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji is a modern granule extract that dissolves instantly in hot water. Decoction may be stronger, but Chong Ji is more convenient and consistent.


Q: Can Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji replace antibiotics?
A: No. Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji is a traditional herbal tea used in Chinese medicine to clear heat and support wellness. It is not a substitute for prescribed antibiotics or medical treatment.


Q: When should I drink Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji?
A: It is traditionally used at the first signs of throat discomfort, heat, or seasonal changes. It can be taken any time of day, though many prefer it warm in the morning or evening.


Q: How should Ban Lan Gen Chong Ji be stored?
A: Keep packets in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and moisture. Once opened, reseal tightly. Proper storage helps maintain potency for up to 24 months.


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Editorial Note

At 1st Chinese Herbs, all herbal articles are researched, written, and reviewed by experienced herbalists and practitioners. We combine traditional knowledge, modern scientific research, and consumer education to provide accurate and trustworthy.

Sarah Johnson, M.S. Holistic Healing
Sarah holds a Master’s degree in Holistic Healing with over 30 years of experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine, bulk herb sourcing, and integrative wellness. She has helped develop consumer-friendly herbal education for 1st Chinese Herbs since 1994, ensuring that complex TCM knowledge is accessible and practical for everyday use.

 

 

PubMed & ScienceDirect References

  • Zhu JJ, et al. Antioxidant, anticancer and antimicrobial activities of essential oils from Semen Platycladi by different extraction methods. ScienceDirect, 2020.

  • Sun J, et al. Extraction methods and sedative–hypnotic effects of Semen Platycladi. T&F Online, 2018.

  • Yan L, et al. Platycladus orientalis seed extract as a potential triple… ScienceDirect, 2022.

  • Liu H, et al. Lifespan extension by n-butanol extract from seed of… ScienceDirect, 2013.

  • PubMed ID: [Antiviral activity of Isatis root extract against influenza virus]

  • Compound Research Focus Notes
    Indigo Antiviral, antioxidant Found to inhibit influenza virus replication【PubMed:16004190†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】
    Indirubin Anti-inflammatory, studied in leukemia models Modulates inflammation and cell growth【PubMed:15252146†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】
    Clemastanin B Immunomodulation Alters cytokine activity in immune studies【PubMed:17302965†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】
    Tryptanthrin Antibacterial, antifungal Demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity【PubMed:19425195†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】
    Polysaccharides Immune balance Studied for regulating immune cell activity【PubMed:19425195†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】

    Pharmacological Research

    • Antiviral Effects: Ban Lan Gen extracts inhibit influenza A and B viruses in vitro【PubMed:16004190†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】.

    • Anti-Inflammatory Actions: Indirubin reduces pro-inflammatory markers in lab studies【PubMed:15252146†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】.

    • Immune Modulation: Isatis polysaccharides support balanced immune responses【PubMed:17302965†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】.

    • Antimicrobial Effects: Tryptanthrin exhibits antibacterial and antifungal properties【PubMed:19425195†pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov】.

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