top of page
Search

Food as Medicine: Asian Pear & Ginger Soup

  • Writer: Bethesda Acupuncture
    Bethesda Acupuncture
  • Dec 27, 2025
  • 3 min read
ree

Asian pears and ginger have been revered for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for their numerous health benefits. These benefits are available from each ingredient on its own, but are amplified when combined together. We prefer to combine them in a delicious ginger and pear soup, perfect for warming up on cold days, and to ward off seasonal sniffles.


Asian pears are not only crisp and sweet but are also packed with vital nutrients and immune-boosting goodness. They are high in vitamin C and polyphenols (like chlorogenic acid), which function as powerful antioxidants, protecting the body's cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Due to their high water and fiber content, they also support healthy digestion and hydration.


Some of the specific health benefits of Asian Pears include:

  • Antioxidant Protection: High in Vitamin C and polyphenols to fight free radical damage.

  • Respiratory Support: Used in TCM to cool the lungs, relieve dry coughs, and soothe sore throats.

  • Digestive Health: Excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting regularity and a healthy gut microbiome.

  • Hydration: High water content aids in detoxification and bodily hydration.


Like the pear, ginger is a potent superfood, containing active compounds like gingerol that contribute to its well-known medicinal properties. It is known for its antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. Ginger is particularly effective as a digestive aid, helping to soothe the stomach, and alleviate nausea. The gingerol compound provides strong anti-inflammatory effects that can help ease muscle pain and symptoms associated with chronic inflammatory conditions. 


Specific properties and health benefits of Ginger include:

  • Anti-Nausea & Digestive Aid: Highly effective at relieving nausea, motion sickness, and promoting stomach health.

  • Anti-Inflammatory: The compound gingerol helps manage pain and symptoms of inflammation.

  • Immune System Support: Utilized in TCM for its warming properties to dispel pathogens during the onset of colds and flu.

  • Warming & Circulatory: Helps promote healthy blood flow and combat coldness in the extremities.


Together, Asian pears and ginger create a truly synergistic effect, amplifying their individual health benefits. The cooling properties of the pear perfectly balance the warming nature of the ginger. This pairing in our quick and easy soup creates an ideal tonic for overall health, especially during transitional or cold seasons.

Asian Pear & Ginger Soup


Ingredients:

  • 1 Asian pear, peeled, cored, halved

  • 3 thin slices of organic, fresh peeled ginger

  • 36 ounces filtered or spring water


Directions:

  • Combine all ingredients in a large pot.

  • Bring to a boil and then cover.

  • Simmer for 30 minutes or until the pear is tender.

  • Optional:

    • If you find the ginger too spicy, you may remove the ginger after 30 minutes.

  • You may emulsify or blend the soup for a smoother consistency.

  • Enjoy while warm!

References:

Aggarwal, B. S., & Harikumar, S. B. (2009). Potential therapeutic effects of ginger for allergic diseases. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 15(1), 183-191.


Grzenda, K., Parr, A. J., & Wardle, J. (2010). Ginger: An herbal medicinal product for nausea and vomiting? Complementary therapies in medicine, 18(4), 199-212.


Kim, M. J., Kim, S. R., Han, J. H., & Lee, K. W. (2010). Antioxidant activity and phenolic acid composition of Korean pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) cultivars. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 58(13), 7705-7711.


Lee, J., & Kang, I. J. (2012). Antioxidant properties of Korean pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) cultivars. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 60(32), 8057-8065.


Li, J., Chen, X., & Li, S. (2019). Clinical aspects and health benefits of ginger (Zingiber officinale) in both traditional Chinese medicine and modern industry.  Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 242, 111917.

This website provides general information only. Content does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for medical guidance.

 
 
bottom of page