What is the difference between rock sugar and white granulated sugar?
Aug 07, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
TCM believes that rock sugar has a neutral property and sweet taste, with the effects of moistening the lungs, promoting body fluid production, relieving cough, and resolving phlegm. It is suitable for alleviating dry cough caused by lung dryness. White granulated sugar also has a sweet taste and neutral property, primarily functioning to harmonize the middle jiao (middle energizer) and relieve acute conditions, thereby assisting in alleviating discomfort caused by spleen and stomach weakness. Rock sugar contains less moisture and has a smooth texture when melted, commonly used to relieve dryness and soreness of the throat. White granulated sugar, when dissolved, has a concentrated sweetness and may irritate the throat if consumed directly.
There are generally differences between rock sugar and white granulated sugar in terms of their properties and functions in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), their effects on the throat, their impact on the spleen and stomach, suitability for different body constitutions, and compatibility with medicinal ingredients. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Different TCM Properties, Flavors, and Functions: In TCM, rock sugar is considered neutral in nature and sweet in flavor, with functions of moistening the lungs, promoting body fluid production, relieving cough, and resolving phlegm. It is suitable for alleviating dry cough caused by lung dryness. White granulated sugar is also sweet and neutral but mainly functions to harmonize the middle jiao (digestive system) and relieve acute conditions, assisting in alleviating discomfort caused by weakness of the spleen and stomach.
2. Different Effects on the Throat: Rock sugar contains less moisture and has a smooth texture after melting, often used to relieve dryness and soreness of the throat. When stewed with pears or other similar ingredients, it enhances the soothing effect on the throat. White granulated sugar, when dissolved, has a concentrated sweetness that may irritate the throat if consumed directly, and is rarely used for throat discomfort.
3. Different Impacts on the Spleen and Stomach: Rock sugar has a mild nature and places less burden on the spleen and stomach when consumed in moderation. Individuals with deficiency-cold in the spleen and stomach can consume small amounts without easily causing discomfort. Excessive intake of white granulated sugar may promote dampness and phlegm accumulation, increasing the burden on the digestive system. Those with weak spleen and stomach function should be cautious about consuming too much.
4. Suitability for Different Body Constitutions: For individuals with a constitution prone to internal heat or easily experiencing excessive heat ("fire") symptoms, moderate consumption of rock sugar can help balance internal heat. However, for those with excessive phlegm-dampness in their constitution, excessive consumption of white granulated sugar may worsen phlegm accumulation, which is not conducive to bodily balance.
5. Differences in Medicinal Compatibility: Rock sugar is commonly used as a flavoring agent in TCM decoctions, especially in formulas designed to moisten the lungs and relieve cough. It can moderate the bitterness of herbs and enhance their lung-moistening effects. White granulated sugar is often used as an auxiliary ingredient in medicinal preparations to harmonize certain irritating herbs, with a relatively limited range of applications.
In daily consumption, the choice between rock sugar and white granulated sugar should be based on individual body constitution. If used to assist in alleviating mild discomfort, selection should be made according to specific symptoms, and neither should be considered a substitute for medical treatment. If significant symptoms arise, prompt medical consultation is advised, and regulation or treatment should follow professional guidance.
