✍️Wendy Brown, Lic. Ac.
Chinese red jujube dates, or hongzao 红枣, have long been proclaimed a superfood. Date kernel fossils discovered by Chinese archeologists imply that red dates have been in China for over 8,000 years, and have been used medicinally for more than 3,000 years. In autumn, jujubes are fresh, crisp, and green; they are dried, taking on a deep red color and sweet, chewy texture. This pitted fruit has high nutritional concentration.
Very high in vitamin C, and also containing vitamins A, B1, B2, protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and magnesium, these fruits are, therefore, excellent for people with significant debility, as hongzao are said to stimulate the production of white blood cells that in turn strengthen immunity. Phosphorus and iron play an important role in preventing anemia and osteoporosis. High levels of Vitamin C convert excessive cholesterol into bile acid, helping to prevent gallstones. Hongzao also decrease the levels of blood cholesterol, protecting the liver.
Chinese red date can be deliciously added to soups, congees, and culinary dishes, but as with all foods and medicinal substances, moderation and understanding are key. Diabetics and those with excessive damp heat conditions should generally avoid or moderate their consumption of red dates.
“Three red dates per day
keep you young forever.”
天吃三枣, 青春永不老
Yītiān chī sān zǎo, qīngchūn yǒng bùlǎo.
