Why Apricots Harm People and the Dead are Buried Under Plum Trees
Introduction: It seems the older generation all know this saying by heart: "Peaches nourish people, apricots harm people, and the dead are buried under plum trees." Now is the summer season when peaches, apricots, plums, and other fruits are abundantly available. Every time I pass by these tempting fruit stalls, I can't help but wonder: why do "apricots harm people and the dead are buried under plum trees"?
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) experts, peaches, apricots, and plums are not only seasonal summer fruits but also traditional Chinese medicines that are both food and medicine.
The saying "Peaches nourish people" and calling them "peaches of longevity" is because the benefits of peaches are well-known: peaches have the effects of tonifying the middle and replenishing qi, nourishing yin and generating fluids, and moistening the intestines to promote bowel movements. They are particularly suitable for people with qi and blood deficiency, sallow complexion and emaciation, palpitations and shortness of breath, constipation, amenorrhea, and blood stasis with swelling and pain to eat more.
In contrast to "peaches nourish people," the saying "apricots harm people and the dead are buried under plum trees" directly points out the view that "overeating apricots and plums is harmful." From the perspective of TCM health preservation, both apricots and plums should not be eaten in excess. TCM believes that the flesh of apricots is sour and has a hot nature with slight toxicity. Overconsumption can damage the sinews and bones, trigger old illnesses, and even lead to eyebrow loss and hair loss, affecting vision. Furthermore, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children who overeat them are very prone to developing sores and carbuncles. At the same time, because fresh apricots are highly acidic, overeating can easily increase stomach acid, damaging the stomach and causing gastric diseases, and can also corrode teeth, leading to cavities. Not only is the flesh of apricots harmful, but friends who love to eat fresh almonds should also be vigilant: as fresh almonds can be bitter or sweet, and bitter almonds contain a toxic substance called "amygdalin," excessive consumption can lead to poisoning and even death. After consulting with many experts, although no conclusive theory has been found that "plums can kill people," due to their warm nature, overeating them can cause symptoms like a feeling of head fullness and deficient heat, such as vexation and fever, tidal fever, and excessive sweating. It is especially important to remember that plums must not be eaten with sparrow meat or honey, as doing so can damage the five internal organs, and in severe cases, can also lead to death. Thus, this folk saying is not without reason.
How to avoid the above-mentioned adverse symptoms?
Lu Guangshen, a researcher at the China Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine Medical Sciences, pointed out, "Plums that do not sink in water are toxic." If you inadvertently buy plums that are astringent or bitter, which are not yet ripe, they should not be eaten. For apricots, which are more harmful when overeaten, consuming 3 to 5 at a time is considered appropriate. At the same time, because "almonds become safe after being heated," meaning that toxic substances are only removed after being roasted or decocted in water, they are then suitable for consumption. For friends who love apricots, besides controlling their greedy appetites, the best strategy is to eat more processed products like preserved apricots and dried apricots.