Chenling Water Chestnuts

Chenling Water Chestnuts

　　The cultivation of water chestnuts originated in the area around Chenling (now part of Chenhe Town), hence the name "Chenling Water Chestnuts." Legend has it that their planting and harvesting began during the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty, and they have a history of over 100 years to date. Located near Longsai Lake, the area boasts fertile soil and abundant water sources. The water chestnuts produced here are large, thin-skinned, juicy, crisp, sweet, and rich in sugar content and nutrients. They are typically harvested around the Lunar New Year during winter and early spring. During this festive season, when people often consume rich and greasy foods, eating a few water chestnuts not only brings a refreshing, sweet coolness but also helps eliminate food stagnation. As a result, they have become a popular digestive aid, ensuring year after year of consistent production and lasting popularity. Water chestnuts can be eaten raw or cooked; they can be stir-fried with meat as part of a meal, or canned (as "Horse Hoof" canned water chestnuts) for export, both of which are widely loved.

　　Later, especially during the reform and opening-up period of the 1980s, the People's Government of Chenhe Town, while guiding farmers in adjusting the agricultural industrial structure, took advantage of the high-yield characteristics of Chenling Water Chestnuts to continuously expand their cultivation area. The Renhe area of Chenhe Town also began widespread planting (water chestnuts from Renhe are called "Renhe Water Chestnuts"). The town government also continuously improved product quality and yield, establishing a Water Chestnut Cultivation Research Association. Through technical research, it was further discovered that water chestnuts promote gastrointestinal motility. As a result, natural health food made from water chestnut ingredients—Puliki Solid Beverage (granules)—was developed. Clinical trials showed positive effects, effectively improving intestinal function (moistening the intestines and relieving constipation). After evaluation by food hygiene experts from the National Health Ministry, it was approved on December 22, 1999, as a domestic health food, and the "Ministry of Health Approval Certificate for Domestic Health Food" was issued.