Dried Chinese Olive

Dried Chinese Olive (Gan Lan): A Sour-Sweet Herb for Throat Comfort, Detoxification, and Cooling Heat

Introduction

Dried Chinese Olive, known as Gan Lan (橄榄) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), comes from the dried fruit of the Chinese olive tree. It is valued for its sour-sweet flavor, cooling nature, and strong detoxifying and throat-soothing qualities. In herbal soups, teas, and medicinal broths, it is used to ease dryness, reduce throat discomfort, and clear heat from the body.

What Is Dried Chinese Olive?

Dried Chinese Olive is the mature fruit of Canarium album that has been dried to preserve its medicinal properties. In TCM, it is cooling, moistening, and detoxifying, especially useful for the Lungs and Stomach. It is prized for relieving sore throat, freshening the breath, clearing internal heat, and supporting overall detoxification.

Health Benefits of Dried Chinese Olive (Gan Lan)

Soothes Sore Throat and Dryness
Commonly used to moisten the throat, ease hoarseness, and reduce discomfort from dryness or irritation.

Clears Heat and Detoxifies
Helps reduce internal heat, especially when caused by infections, inflammation, or overconsumption of hot, greasy foods.

Supports Lung Health
Moistens the Lungs, helping relieve dry coughs and throat scratchiness.

Freshens Breath
Traditionally used to promote a clean mouth and reduce foul odors.

Aids Digestion
Its sour-sweet nature can help stimulate digestion and ease mild digestive stagnation.

How to Use Dried Chinese Olive (Gan Lan)

In Teas
Simmer a few dried olives with licorice root or chrysanthemum to soothe the throat and cool heat.

In Herbal Soups
Add 2–4 dried olives to soups with pork, chicken, or herbs for detoxifying and moistening benefits.

In Medicinal Formulas
Often combined with herbs like Luo Han Guo, licorice root, or mint for throat and lung support.

As a Chewable Remedy
Can be lightly soaked or softened and chewed to relieve acute throat discomfort (traditional use).

Where to Buy Dried Chinese Olive (Gan Lan)

You can find Dried Chinese Olive at:

• TCM herbal shops
• Asian supermarkets (herbal or dried fruit section)
• Online herbal suppliers
• Specialty wellness stores

Look for:

• Firm, whole dried fruits
• Natural olive-green or brownish color
• Slightly glossy skin
• Clean aroma with no sour or moldy smell

Are There Any Side Effects?

Dried Chinese Olive is generally safe in moderate amounts.

Avoid or use cautiously if you have:

• Very cold constitution
• Loose stools or weak digestion
• Sensitivity to sour foods
• Excessive amounts may cause digestive discomfort due to its cooling and sour nature.

Conclusion

Dried Chinese Olive (Gan Lan) is a cooling, sour-sweet herbal fruit treasured in TCM for soothing the throat, clearing heat, and supporting detoxification. Whether used in teas, soups, or traditional remedies, it offers gentle yet effective relief for dryness, inflammation, and heat-related discomfort.

FAQs

Is Dried Chinese Olive good for sore throat?
Yes, it is widely used to soothe dryness, irritation, and heat-related throat discomfort.

Can I use it daily?
Yes, in small to moderate amounts, especially in teas or soups.

Is it toxic?
No, Dried Chinese Olive is not toxic. It is safe when used properly and in reasonable quantities.