Dried Persimmon
Dried Persimmon (Shi Bing): A Sweet-Nourishing Herb for Moistening the Lungs, Strengthening Qi, and Supporting Digestion
Introduction
Dried Persimmon, known as Shi Bing (柿饼) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is made from fully ripened persimmons that are dried until sweet and tender. It is valued for its cooling, moistening, and nourishing qualities, supporting both the Lungs and the digestive system. In soups, teas, and traditional tonics, it is used to ease dryness, calm coughs, strengthen Qi, and improve overall comfort.
What Is Dried Persimmon?
Dried Persimmon is produced from the ripe fruit of Diospyros kaki, dried naturally to concentrate sweetness and enhance its medicinal properties. In TCM, it is sweet, cooling, and moistening, benefiting the Lungs, Stomach, and Spleen. It is prized for soothing throat dryness, easing coughs, calming the stomach, and replenishing fluids.
Health Benefits of Dried Persimmon (Shi Bing)
Moistens the Lungs and Eases Dry Coughs
Helps soothe dryness, relieve light coughing, and calm throat irritation.
Supports Digestive Comfort
Aids in reducing belching, heartburn, and mild digestive discomfort.
Nourishes Qi and Replenishes Fluids
Gently supports energy and helps counter dryness caused by heat or long-term weakness.
Helps Reduce Thirst
Traditionally used to cool the body and quench dryness-induced thirst.
Calms the Spirit
Its sweet, grounding nature may help ease mild restlessness or irritability.
How to Use Dried Persimmon (Shi Bing)
In Teas
Slice and simmer with goji berries, lily bulb, or pear to moisten the lungs and ease dryness.
In Herbal Soups
Add 1–2 pieces to soups with chicken, pork, or Lung-moistening herbs.
In Medicinal Formulas
Often combined with lily bulb, lotus seed, or Fritillaria for Lung and Stomach harmony.
As a Snack or Natural Sweetener
Eaten on its own or added to porridge or herbal desserts.
Where to Buy Dried Persimmon (Shi Bing)
Available at Asian supermarkets, TCM herbal shops, online herbal stores, and specialty dried fruit markets. Look for soft, tender fruits with natural white sugar frost, a clean sweet aroma, and a bright orange or amber color.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Dried Persimmon is generally safe in moderate amounts. Use cautiously if you have cold digestion, loose stools, excess phlegm-dampness, or need to monitor sugar intake. Large amounts may cause digestive discomfort due to its cooling, sweet nature.
Conclusion
Dried Persimmon (Shi Bing) is a sweet, cooling, and nourishing fruit appreciated in TCM for moistening the lungs, supporting digestion, and gently boosting Qi. Whether added to teas and soups or eaten as a traditional snack, it offers soothing and restorative benefits for dryness, heat, and mild digestive imbalance.
FAQs
Is Dried Persimmon good for cough?
Yes, especially for dry coughs and throat dryness.
Can I eat it daily?
Yes, in small to moderate amounts.
Is it toxic?
No, Dried Persimmon is not toxic and is safe when used correctly.