Peach gum

Amber lumps of resin exuded from the bark of peach trees, gathered and dried — shelved with the fungi and jellies but not actually a fungus. Soaked ten hours or more it swells into translucent, jelly-like clouds that give sweet soups a soft slippery bite, often likened to a plant-based collagen.

TCM properties

Nature · neutral　Flavour · sweet、bitter　Meridians · large intestine、bladder

Traditional food therapy

In Cantonese food therapy peach gum is used to moisten dryness and ease the bowels; its abundant plant gum also makes it a favourite of beauty-minded sweet soups.

Cautions — read first

• Pregnant women, anyone breastfeeding and anyone on anticoagulant medication should check first.
• This kind of soup does not suit people with gout.
• Keep to a moderate amount if your digestion is weak.

Preparation

Soak for at least 10 hours until it swells up and turns clear, then pick out the black bits of bark carefully.

Origin

中原及華東桃產區（無特定道地產區） — AU stock is Chinese-brand packs (Henghui)

Availability in Australia

Common at Asian grocers · A$7.4–7.4 / 100g
Henghui Peach Gum 200g $14.79 sale price (pre-sale $18.09 = $9.05/100g)

Pairs well with