What are the medicinal benefits of peach gum?
Oct 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Ziyi
Introduction
Taojiao (peach gum) is a substance secreted from the bark of peach trees. It is considered a health-promoting food and also belongs to traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Taojiao has a slightly sweet, bitter, and neutral taste, is non-toxic, and is associated with the lung and bladder meridians. Generally, its medicinal benefits include providing nutritional supplementation, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, relieving cough and asthma, and enhancing beauty and complexion.
Peach gum is a substance secreted from the bark of peach trees. It is considered a health-promoting food and also belongs to traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Peach gum has a mild nature with sweet, slightly bitter, and neutral properties, and is non-toxic. It primarily affects the lung and bladder meridians. Generally speaking, the medicinal benefits of peach gum include nutritional supplementation, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, relieving cough and asthma, and beautifying the skin. Specific details are as follows:
1. Nutritional Supplementation
Proteins are abundant in human cells and tissues. They not only serve as essential structural components of the body but also participate in various physiological processes. As a fundamental source of life, consuming peach gum helps supplement the body's protein levels and enhances overall nutrition.
2. Promotes Blood Circulation and Removes Blood Stasis
Peach gum is mainly secreted from peach tree bark and possesses properties that promote blood circulation and resolve blood stasis. Clinically, it can be used to alleviate menstrual discomfort such as dysmenorrhea, amenorrhea, and postpartum lochia. It may also help relieve local pain and bruising caused by injuries or trauma.
3. Moistens the Intestines and Relieves Constipation
Peach gum contains a relatively high amount of dietary fiber. When consumed appropriately, it can enhance gastrointestinal motility, accelerate the elimination of toxins and waste from the body, and promote intestinal lubrication, thereby helping to relieve constipation and related discomforts.
4. Relieves Cough and Asthma
Peach gum also has effects in suppressing cough and alleviating asthma. In clinical use, it can help improve symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness, and may also aid in relieving constipation.
5. Skin Beautification and Rejuvenation
Skin aging is directly linked to free radicals, while skin elasticity depends on collagen. When the body lacks sufficient collagen, skin elasticity decreases and wrinkles appear. Peach gum contains abundant plant-based collagen protein; moderate consumption can help replenish the body’s collagen levels.
It should be noted that although peach gum offers many benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals who are allergic to peach gum, those with digestive issues, and people with diabetes should avoid it. Additionally, patients should not self-medicate without guidance. Medication should be taken strictly according to medical advice, in the correct dosage and schedule. If any physical discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended, and standardized treatment under a doctor's supervision will support recovery.
