Sterculiae (pang da hai) is used for sore throats, tonsillitis, and more

Sterculiae (pang da hai) is a seed used for sore throats, tonsillitis, hoarseness, and cough. Pictured right is what it looks like in the dried form.

Boil a pot of water, then steep two or three seeds for 10-15 minutes in a cup of hot water. The seed softens and swells into a large gelatinous mass which you see top right. Then drink the tea every four hours. The tea has a mild flavor, so it's perfect for children. The seeds will expand 2-3 times their original size when steeped. Sterculiae is also used for constipation.