“Discover the incredible benefits of Oriental Raisin Tree (Hovenia dulcis), renowned for its ability to detoxify the liver, relieve hangovers, and support digestive health. Learn how this traditional herb can help you recover from fatigue and maintain a healthy balance in your body.”
Hovenia dulcis(헛개나무), also known as “Jiguja” in traditional medicine, is a well-known herb valued for its detoxifying abilities, hangover relief, and thirst-quenching properties.
It’s especially effective for soothing hangovers, helping to ease thirst, nausea, and digestive discomfort, while also supporting better urination after drinking.
Traditionally used for digestive health, it remains a popular choice for liver protection and hangover relief in modern wellness practices.
What Makes Hovenia Dulcis Special?
This deciduous tree can grow as tall as 10 meters, with gray-brown bark and yellow-brown young branches. Its oval-shaped leaves grow opposite each other, and the tree flourishes on sunny hillsides or along roadsides.
From May to June, small yellowish flowers bloom, and it bears fruit from September to October. With its graceful appearance, Hovenia dulcis is sometimes grown as an ornamental tree, and its adaptability makes it a hardy choice for the wild.
Harvesting and Medicinal Use
The medicinal value of Hovenia dulcis lies in its seeds, which are best harvested when the fruit is fully ripe.
To keep their benefits intact, the seeds should be dried and stored correctly.
When boiled in water, the seeds offer detoxifying effects and help to quench thirst, making them a go-to remedy for flushing out toxins and relieving hangovers.
Health Benefits and How It Works
Hovenia dulcis has a sweet taste and a neutral nature, making it suitable for a variety of uses. It supports stomach health, helping with digestion and alleviating digestive issues. The herb is also great for hangover relief, reducing nausea, and addressing urinary problems.
Its ability to calm inflammation and expel toxins from the body adds to its versatility. Recent research even suggests that Hovenia dulcis extract may help protect liver function, reinforcing its traditional and modern therapeutic benefits.
How to Use Hovenia Dulcis
To prepare Hovenia dulcis tea, take 9-15 grams of dried seeds, add them to 800 ml of water, and simmer gently until the liquid is reduced by half. Drink this 2-3 times a day for the best results.
To help with hangover symptoms, you can replace regular water with Hovenia dulcis tea, or simply enjoy it as a refreshing drink when you’re feeling particularly thirsty.
It’s especially cooling when served cold in the summer, providing quick hydration.
Safe Use and Precautions
Although Hovenia dulcis is generally considered safe, it’s important to stick to the recommended dosage. Avoid taking too much, and if you have serious liver or digestive issues, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional first.
Always follow the proper dosage and preparation instructions, and consider your overall health status to prevent any adverse effects. For children and pregnant women, seeking medical advice before using Hovenia dulcis is a wise step.
Traditional Roots and Modern Uses
For generations, Hovenia dulcis has been used to relieve hangovers, quench thirst, and support digestive health. Recent studies confirm its benefits, and modern applications have expanded to include liver protection.
This versatile herb continues to be a natural choice for those who prefer herbal remedies for maintaining wellness.
When used correctly, Hovenia dulcis offers a safe and effective way to tap into the healing power of nature.