Peaches from Yongning

Peaches from Yongning

　　Peaches belong to the Rosaceae family and the genus Prunus. China has an extremely rich variety of peaches. According to statistics, there are over 1,000 varieties worldwide, more than 800 in China, and about 30 are used for commercial cultivation. Peaches are juicy, delicious, aromatic, brightly colored, and highly nutritious. Every 100 grams of pulp contains 7–15 grams of sugar, 0.2–0.9 grams of organic acids, 0.–0.8 grams of protein, 0.1–0.5 grams of fat, 3–5 milligrams of vitamin C, 0.01–0.02 milligrams of vitamin B1, 0.2 milligrams of vitamin B2, and 1180 micrograms of carotenoids.

Peach trees are medium-sized deciduous trees, not very large, easy to cultivate and manage, and adaptable to various soils and climates. They can be cultivated in both southern and northern regions, as well as in mountainous and plain areas, by selecting suitable rootstocks and varieties. Varieties of ornamental peach trees with different flower colors, weeping peach trees, and dwarf peach trees suitable for potting all play important roles in greening cities and beautifying people’s lives. The peach originated in China and has been cultivated for more than 4,000 years.

Peaches have a pleasant taste and emit a fragrance that can uplift the mood. They are also relatively rich in nutrients and beneficial to health, contributing to longevity.

The branches, leaves, and fruit of the peach tree also have medicinal value. Sun Simiao, a pharmacologist of the Tang Dynasty, referred to the peach as the “fruit of the lungs” and said, “Those with lung diseases should eat it.” In traditional Chinese medicine, the lungs are called the “delicate organ,” which prefers moisture and dislikes dryness. Peaches are rich in gelatinous substances that can absorb large amounts of water in the large intestine, helping to prevent constipation. The nutrients in peaches also benefit the skin. According to the *Compendium of Materia Medica* (*Daming Bencao*), drying peaches into peach preserves and consuming them regularly can improve beauty and complexion. However, dried peaches are very high in sugar, so it’s better to soak them in hot water with a small amount of green tea or herbal tea to reduce sugar content and enhance flavor.

It is worth noting that fresh peaches are extremely perishable after being picked and should be consumed as soon as possible. Before eating, the peach fuzz should be washed off to avoid it piercing the skin and causing rashes, or being inhaled into the respiratory tract, which may lead to coughing, throat irritation, and other symptoms.