They call it the “Chinese date”.
In Chinese medicine, food plays a central role and is considered a fundamental form of therapy. Foods are classified according to their Yin (refreshing) or Yang (warming) nature. A balanced diet aims to maintain harmony between these two forces in the body, which is essential for overall health. Foods are not only chosen for their nutritional values but also for their specific healing properties such as the ability to nourish blood, increase energy (Qi), or eliminate toxins. This is the case with a small fruit called “Chinese date”.
“It tones Qi and blood, spleen and stomach and, therefore the lung and the immune system” explains Liliane Papin, specialist in oriental medicine, in her book “Taoist medicine”. It increases energy and revitalizes the body, especially in the event of anemia. In addition, crunch directly in the fresh or dried fruit “Promotes intestinal transit gently” According to Professor Nicole Tonelli, associate in life and earth sciences, and Pr François Gallouin, doctor of human biology, authors of the book “of the fruits and edible seeds of the whole world”. Chinese researchers have confirmed its functions “Anticancer, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antiviral, neuroprotective and sedative” in a study.
The term “Chinese date” is actually only a nickname to designate Jujube. Very little sweet, it is the small fruit from the jujube tree, in Chinese Dao Zao which means “big date”. It looks more like “A round or oblure yellow bay at the size of an olive or a date depending on the varieties”explains Patricia Bargis, specialist in dietetics and alternative medicine in the book “Fruits: nutrition, health, well-being”. “Its smooth and hard, non -edible skin contains a white or pistachio green pulp, slightly sweet, containing a nucleus which has an oily seed.”
Jujube can be eaten fresh or dried, like a date. It is also possible to consume it “In compote, jam, fruit paste”completes Patricia Bargis. If it is difficult to find it in supermarkets, there is a powder alternative, at the rate of “2 to 6 teaspoons mixed in a cup of boiling water”. Like all natural remedies, this food cannot replace a medical treatment prescribed by a doctor.
