Food as Medicine: Sichuan Steamed Pear Dessert

This delicious recipe for the asian pear takes advantage of both quercetin and rutin which are flavonoids that help regulate the immune system. In addition to Asian pear, this recipe uses Sichuan fritillary bulb (Chuan Bei Mu) which helps treat various lung conditions such as severe coughing, asthma, bronchitis and more. Research conducted has shown that the compounds contained in the bulb are known to help inhibit the contraction of bronchial smooth muscles, decrease mucus secretions, and reduce swelling.

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Immune Boosting Steamed Pear Dessert

We use this recipe all fall and winter to stave off respiratory issues. It can be consumed daily to help alleviate coughing. Please discuss the use of Chuan Bei Mu with your licensed Doctor of Chinese medicine if you are pregnant.

Ingredients:

• 1 Asian pear

• 1/2 teaspoon of Chuan Bei Mu, processed into powder

• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon of local honey or Manuka honey

• Water for steaming

• Optional: golgi berries as garnish

Steps:

• Peel the Asian pear

• Slice off the top 1/4 of the pear

• With a small spoon or measuring spoon, scoop out the seeds and tough core but do not break into the bottom of the pear

• Pour the powderized Chuan Bei Mu and honey into center of the pear

• Secure the top of the pear back on

• Place in a small heat safe bowl and into a steamer

• Steam for 60 minutes

• Serve 1 warm pear per person

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References:

Bensky D, Gamble A. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, revised edition. Seattle: Eastland Press, 1993.

Fan W. A Manual of Chinese Herbal Medicine: Principles and Practice for Easy Reference. East Lansing, MI: Shambala, 1996.

Holmes P. Jade Remedies: A Chinese Herbal Reference for the West. Boulder, CO: Snow Lotus Press, 1997