“Guilinggao” is a traditional Chinese medicinal dessert, primarily composed of ingredients like turtle shell, Poria cocos, honeysuckle, and dandelion. It is known for its effects in clearing heat, detoxifying, nourishing the lungs, soothing coughs, and promoting skin beauty. It is commonly used to treat ailments such as colds, coughs, and sore throats. Below, we will provide a detailed introduction to the origin, preparation method, and consumption of Guilinggao.
what is guilinggao made of?
Guilinggao can be categorized in various ways, some of which are commonly used:
Classification by Ingredients: Based on different raw materials, Guilinggao can be categorized into various types, such as those primarily made from turtle shell or Poria cocos.
Classification by Texture: Distinguished by their textures, Guilinggao can be grouped into different types, including smooth and silky varieties or chewy and elastic types.
Classification by Additives: Differentiated by the additives used, Guilinggao comes in multiple forms, such as those with added fruits, nuts, or preserved fruits.
In summary, Guilinggao offers a wide range of options, allowing individuals to choose the type that best suits their personal preferences and needs.
types of guilinggao
Categorized by Ingredients:
Based on the different raw materials used, Guilinggao can be classified into various types, such as those primarily made from turtle shell, and those mainly composed of Poria cocos.
Categorized by Texture:
Distinguished by their textures, Guilinggao can be categorized into different types, including smooth and silky varieties, as well as chewy and elastic types.
Categorized by Additives:
Differentiated by the additives incorporated, Guilinggao comes in multiple forms, such as those with added fruits, nuts, or preserved fruits.
In summary, Guilinggao offers a diverse array of options, allowing individuals to choose the type that best suits their personal preferences and needs.
benefits of guilinggao jelly
Benefits:
Health Benefits: Guilinggao has various medicinal properties, including the ability to reduce internal heat and clear heat-toxins. It can help cool the body, clear away heat, and remove dampness.
Weight Management: Guilinggao is characterized by low calories, low fat, and low cholesterol. When paired with fruits and low-calorie staple foods, it can contribute to weight management and support weight loss efforts.
Beauty and Skin Care: Guilinggao, made from a blend of medicinal ingredients, aids in detoxification, promotes metabolism, and contributes to skin health, providing beauty and skincare benefits.
Blood Lipid and Blood Sugar Regulation: Modern nutritional studies have found that Guilinggao contains active polysaccharides and amino acids. Its low-calorie, low-fat, and low-cholesterol characteristics can help regulate blood lipids and blood sugar.
Health Benefits of Black Foods: As a natural black-colored food, Guilinggao aligns with the trend of consuming black foods for their health benefits.
Efficacy:
Historical Medicinal Formula: Guilinggao has a long history as a traditional Chinese medicinal remedy. Its modern adaptations have improved its taste and reduced its strong medicinal flavor, making it a popular choice for cooling off during the summer.
Heat-Clearing: Guilinggao’s primary function is to clear heat and reduce internal fire. Consuming it helps disperse accumulated heat and dampness from the body. It is especially suitable for the hot summer months, aiding in preventing heatstroke and benefiting individuals with damp-heat constitution.
guilinggao history
Source One:
According to research, the original birthplace of “Guilinggao” is in Wuzhou, formerly known as Cangwu Commandery. During the Three Kingdoms period, when Emperor Liu Bei of Shu Han passed away, the indigenous people of various southern commanderies took advantage of the situation to rebel. Zhuge Liang personally led troops to suppress the rebellion, which might be the story that inspired the episode of “Capturing Meng Huo Seven Times” in the novel “Romance of the Three Kingdoms.” During Zhuge Liang’s campaign in the south, his troops were stationed in Cangwu Commandery. Most of the soldiers were from the northern regions and were not acclimated to the southern climate, resulting in many suffering from digestive issues. This severely impacted their combat effectiveness. Zhuge Liang sought local advice and learned that the humid and foggy climate of Wuzhou was causing the health problems. Local people offered a remedy using local ingredients like turtle and Poria cocos to make a soup for consumption. Upon trying this remedy, the soldiers indeed experienced miraculous effects, and most of them recovered. While this historical anecdote is not recorded in official history, the humid and foggy climate of Wuzhou is true, as well as the fact that “Guilinggao” is a traditional local remedy. It’s unlikely that Wuzhou being the birthplace of “Guilinggao” is false. The production of “Guilinggao” had already begun in Wuzhou since the 1940s.
Source Two:
“Guilinggao” originated during the Southern Song Dynasty, around 800 years ago. In the late Southern Song period, when the Yuan troops invaded Lin’an, Empress Yang, along with the young emperor, relocated to Yashan in Xinhui, Guangdong (now Jiangmen City), in an effort to restore their rule. At that time, about 200,000 soldiers and civilians migrated, most of whom were from the northern regions. Upon their arrival in southern Guangdong, many soldiers suffered from digestive problems, affecting their combat capabilities. Around 800 years ago, during the late Southern Song period, Lu Xiufu and court physicians discussed the formulation of a health-preserving dietary remedy based on “liangfencao” (a type of herb known for cooling properties). They improved upon the existing formula by incorporating local ingredients unique to Yashan, such as “liangfencao,” snapping turtle, Poria cocos, raw Rehmannia root, dandelion, and honeysuckle, to create a medicinal paste. This marked the embryonic stage of “Guilinggao.” During the Yuan Dynasty (1366 AD), Lu Yao, a third-generation descendant of Lu Xiufu, established “Shenghe Tang” pharmacy to alleviate the suffering of people troubled by damp-heat conditions. Shenghe Tang selected the unique “shenxiancao” (liangfencao) from Yashan and combined traditional methods with modern technology, meticulously refining the product from traditional ingredients like “shenxiancao,” Poria cocos, honeysuckle, dandelion, licorice, and turtle.
who made gui ling gao?
“Guilinggao” is one of the snacks, and there are various claims regarding its inventor. Processed and cooked, it is primarily used for treating symptoms like skin itching and oral ulcers. Another claim states that “Guilinggao” was invented by Zhuge Liang during the Three Kingdoms period. He supposedly used turtle and various herbs to create “Guilinggao,” which was used to treat illnesses among soldiers. Another account attributes the invention of “Guilinggao” to Lu Xiufu, a prime minister during the late Southern Song Dynasty. Allegedly, he created “Guilinggao” using turtle shell and a variety of herbs to enhance the soldiers’ resistance and combat capabilities against the Yuan Dynasty’s invasion.
when gui ling gao invented?
The invention of “Guilinggao” took place during the Southern Song Dynasty. At that time, approximately 200,000 soldiers and civilians were relocated, mostly from northern regions, to southern Guangdong. Upon their arrival, many soldiers suffered from digestive issues due to the change in climate, which severely impacted their combat effectiveness. Around 800 years ago, during the late Southern Song period, Lu Xiufu and court physicians consulted and improved upon a traditional court remedy for clearing heat and dampness. They based their modifications on “liangfencao” (a type of herb known for cooling properties). Incorporating local ingredients unique to Yashan, such as snapping turtle, Poria cocos, raw Rehmannia root, dandelion, and honeysuckle, they created a medicinal paste. This marked the embryonic stage of “Guilinggao.”
where gui ling gao invented?
“Guilinggao” originated in Wuzhou, Guangxi, and was developed by Zhi Zhonghe, a herbal health expert, under the brand “Zhonghe” (established in 1763). In Wuzhou, there are numerous enterprises engaged in the production of “Guilinggao,” with Guangxi Wuzhou Pharmaceutical Group being the oldest and largest producer. Due to the protection status of turtles as a wildlife species, the turtles used in the production of Shuangqianpai Guilinggao by this enterprise are self-developed, experimented upon, and bred turtles. By 2005, Shuangqianpai Guilinggao had captured 50% of the Taiwan market, 70% of the Hong Kong market, 30% of the Southeast Asian market, and 30% to 50% of the markets in the United States and Canada. Recognizing the significant value of this specialty product, in May 2007, after rigorous evaluation, the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine of China approved the implementation of geographical indication protection for Wuzhou Guilinggao.
how is gui ling gao made?
Ingredients: Over twenty types of Chinese medicinal ingredients, including turtle shell, Poria cocos, rhizoma atractylodis, bitter ginseng, ligustrum lucidum, schizonepeta tenuifolia spike, astragalus root, raw Rehmannia root, chicken bone grass, etc.
Method: Prepared following traditional methods, the process of refining from handling the medicinal ingredients to slow simmering takes about ten hours.
Benefits: Detoxification, heat relief, lung nourishment and cough suppression, stomach strengthening and intestinal regulation, acne treatment, improvement of constipation, weight management, and beauty enhancement.
(Turtle shell is a precious Chinese medicinal ingredient known for heat-clearing and detoxification; Poria cocos can remove dampness.) Essential Step: After freezing, adding honey or milk for consumption enhances the taste.
Ingredients: 50g Guilinggao powder, 240g cold water, 1000g boiling water, 200g sugar.
Method:
- Pour Guilinggao powder into a pot and mix it with cold water until well blended.
- Pour boiling water into the pot, simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes while stirring slowly.
- Pour the mixture from step 2 into a storage container and place it in the refrigerator’s chilled compartment for at least 5 hours, allowing the Guilinggao to solidify.
- Cut the solidified Guilinggao into pieces and mix in an appropriate amount of honey.
- Cut the mango in half and make cross-hatch incisions on the top, then dice the mango flesh into small pieces.
- Mix the diced mango with the Guilinggao mixture until well combined.
how to eat gui ling gao?
The consumption methods of “Guilinggao” are as follows:
- Directly dissolve and consume with warm boiled water. Before consumption, you can dissolve “Guilinggao” in a suitable amount of warm boiled water, mix well, and then consume it directly.
- It can be paired with some sweet foods, such as honey, coconut milk, fruits, etc. Cut “Guilinggao” into pieces and consume it together with sweet foods.
“Guilinggao” has a jelly-like texture and is primarily composed of ingredients such as turtle shell, Poria cocos, raw Rehmannia root, hemp seed, honeysuckle, etc. It has the effects of nourishing Yin, moisturizing dryness, clearing heat, eliminating vexation, and dispelling damp-heat. After consuming the medicine, avoid drinking strong tea, coffee, carbonated beverages, beer, liquor, and other stimulating drinks. Also, avoid consuming oily, hard-to-digest, and spicy foods to prevent diminishing the medicinal effects and affecting the body’s recovery.
Taboos of Guilinggao
The contraindications of “Guilinggao” are as follows:
- Individuals with a constitution of deficiency-cold, as “Guilinggao” is prepared using various cooling Chinese medicinal ingredients like turtle shell, Poria cocos, honeysuckle, and monk fruit, making its nature inclined towards coldness.
- Pregnant women during pregnancy, as the main ingredient of “Guilinggao” is turtle shell, along with other cooling medicinal herbs. Turtle shell has a stimulating effect on the uterus and can also help promote blood circulation and dispel stasis. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid consuming “Guilinggao” as it could not only affect their own health but also potentially stimulate the fetus in the womb, leading to a risk of miscarriage.
- Women during menstruation, as “Guilinggao” is prepared using various Chinese medicinal ingredients that can have an excitatory effect on the uterus. During the menstrual period, the consumption of “Guilinggao” could exacerbate discomfort and increase menstrual flow, leading to menstrual discomfort and potentially impacting overall health.
guilinggao calories
“Guilinggao” typically contains around 50 kcal in terms of calories. The specific calorie content may vary depending on different brands and processing methods.
“Guilinggao” is a traditional Chinese dessert, and it doesn’t contain excessive amounts of sugar and fat. Therefore, compared to consuming other cream-based desserts outside, “Guilinggao” is considered a relatively low-calorie option. However, it’s important to pay attention to the intake and consume it in moderation.
gui ling gao benefits
The benefits of consuming “Guilinggao” are as follows:
- It can help prevent diseases and clear heat from the body, promoting detoxification and reducing dampness and heat.
- It can enhance the body’s immune system.
- Made from a combination of various Chinese herbs, “Guilinggao” has been used as a medicinal food for a long time. Consuming it can help detoxify the body, eliminate toxins, promote metabolism, and prevent dry and aging skin.
- It can reduce internal heat and dispel dampness. For individuals with excessive dampness in their bodies, consuming “Guilinggao” in moderation can be beneficial. It provides essential amino acids for the body.
- It can help regulate blood lipid and blood sugar levels. Modern nutritional studies have found that “Guilinggao” contains various active polysaccharides and amino acids. It is low in calories, fat, and cholesterol, making it capable of regulating blood lipid and blood sugar levels.
how often to eat gui ling gao?
The frequency of consuming “Guilinggao” can vary based on individual preferences and health considerations. Generally, “Guilinggao” is a dessert or medicinal food, and its consumption frequency can depend on factors such as your overall diet, health goals, and any underlying health conditions. Here are a few considerations:
Moderation: Like any food, “Guilinggao” should be consumed in moderation. It is advisable not to overindulge, even though it may have health benefits.
Occasional Treat: Many people enjoy “Guilinggao” as an occasional treat or dessert. You can incorporate it into your diet as part of your sweet indulgences, perhaps once or twice a week.
As Needed: In traditional Chinese medicine, “Guilinggao” is often consumed during specific times or situations, such as when you have excessive internal heat or dampness. In such cases, it might be consumed more frequently for its potential therapeutic effects.
Consultation: If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual needs and health status.
Remember that individual responses to foods can vary, so paying attention to how your body reacts and adjusting your consumption accordingly is important. It’s also important to consider “Guilinggao” as part of your overall dietary pattern and maintain a balanced and varied diet.
is gui ling gao still made of turtle?
“Guilinggao” is not made from turtles.
“Guilinggao” is prepared by grinding ingredients such as turtle shell, Poria cocos, honeysuckle, honey, licorice, and other traditional Chinese medicinal herbs into a powder. This powder is then boiled in hot water, cooled, and allowed to set to create “Guilinggao.” The turtle shell, along with Poria cocos, honeysuckle, honey, licorice, and other medicinal herbs, is ground into a powder, then boiled in hot water, cooled, and allowed to set to create “Guilinggao.” “Guilinggao” is a type of medicinal food made from a combination of valuable medicinal herbs, and it has functions such as preventing constipation. It is suitable for consumption by the elderly and children, helping to boost our immune system and promote metabolism. As you can see, “Guilinggao” has a wide range of uses.
is gui ling gao halal?
“Guilinggao” typically contains ingredients like turtle shell and other traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Turtle is not considered halal in Islamic dietary guidelines, as it is not slaughtered according to halal practices.
If you are following halal dietary restrictions, it is advisable to avoid consuming products that contain non-halal ingredients. It’s important to carefully check the ingredients and preparation methods of any food product, including “Guilinggao,” to ensure that it aligns with your dietary requirements.
If you have specific concerns about the halal status of a particular product or ingredient, it’s recommended to consult with a knowledgeable religious authority or scholar who can provide guidance based on Islamic dietary principles.
is gui ling gao vegetarian?
Traditional “Guilinggao” typically contains ingredients such as turtle shell, which is derived from animals, making it non-vegetarian. However, there are variations and modern recipes of “Guilinggao” that may use alternative ingredients to cater to different dietary preferences.
If you are looking for a vegetarian version of “Guilinggao,” you might want to explore recipes or products that specifically mention being vegetarian or plant-based. Always check the ingredient list to ensure it aligns with your dietary requirements.
is gui ling gao good for cough?
“Guilinggao” is traditionally believed to have properties that can help soothe cough and relieve throat discomfort due to its cooling and nourishing effects. It contains ingredients like Poria cocos, honeysuckle, and other herbs that are thought to have potential benefits for respiratory health.
However, it’s important to note that while “Guilinggao” is a traditional remedy and may have certain health benefits, it is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have a persistent or severe cough, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and medical history.
gui ling gao vs grass jelly
“Guilinggao” and grass jelly (also known as “cincau” or “cendol”) are both popular Asian desserts that are enjoyed for their cooling and refreshing properties. However, they have some differences in terms of ingredients, preparation, and regional variations:
Guilinggao:
Ingredients: “Guilinggao” is made from ingredients such as turtle shell, Poria cocos (a type of fungus), honeysuckle, and other traditional Chinese herbs.
Preparation: It involves grinding the ingredients into a powder and then cooking and cooling the mixture to form a jelly-like consistency.
Usage: “Guilinggao” is often consumed for its potential health benefits, including soothing throat discomfort, promoting skin health, and supporting overall well-being. It is sometimes used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Cultural Context: “Guilinggao” is commonly found in Chinese communities and is associated with Chinese culinary and medicinal traditions.
Grass Jelly :
Ingredients: Grass jelly is made from the leaves of the Mesona chinensis plant. It is often processed with starch or other ingredients to create the jelly texture.
Preparation: The leaves are boiled, strained, and mixed with other ingredients to create the jelly-like texture. It can be served in various forms, including as a dessert or drink.
Usage: Grass jelly is known for its cooling properties and is often consumed as a dessert or beverage, especially in Southeast Asian countries. It is a popular ingredient in various traditional and modern dishes.
Cultural Context: Grass jelly is commonly found in Southeast Asian cuisines and is enjoyed in desserts, beverages, and even savory dishes in some regions.
In summary, both “Guilinggao” and grass jelly have unique ingredients and preparation methods, and they are enjoyed for their cooling and refreshing qualities. While “Guilinggao” has traditional Chinese roots and potential health benefits, grass jelly is a popular dessert and beverage ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisines.
The difference between tortoise shell glue and Guilinggao
“Gu Jia Jiao” (Turtle Shell Glue) and “Gui Ling Gao” (Turtle Jelly) are both processed medicinal products or foods derived from traditional Chinese herbal ingredients. They differ in terms of composition, characteristics, and indications, as outlined below:
Different Composition:
“Gu Jia Jiao” is composed of turtle shell.
“Gui Ling Gao” contains turtle shell, Rehmannia root, Poria cocos, Plantago asiatica seeds, honeysuckle, licorice, and hemp seed.
Different Characteristics:
“Gu Jia Jiao” appears as rectangular or square flat pieces, deep brown in color, with a hard and brittle texture.
“Gui Ling Gao” is a semi-fluid substance, either brown or black in color.
Different Indications:
“Gu Jia Jiao” is used for conditions like yin deficiency with tidal fever, night sweats, sore and weak lower back and knees, and blood deficiency with withered and yellow complexion.
“Gui Ling Gao” is indicated for symptoms such as vexation due to yin deficiency with inner heat, mouth ulcers, deficiency of body fluids leading to constipation, hot and turbid painful urination, abnormal vaginal discharge, skin itching, and skin abscesses.
In conclusion, “Guilinggao” is a type of traditional Chinese herbal dessert known for its effects in clearing heat, detoxification, soothing the lungs, relieving cough, and promoting skincare. Its preparation is straightforward, and it can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a beloved culinary delicacy among those who appreciate traditional Chinese herbal cuisine.
