Soups
Five-Finger Peach and Finger Citron Lean Pork Soup
traditionally used to tonify the spleen, move qi, dispel dampness, and support those with chronic gastritis or ulcer-related discomfort
Why people make this soup
Five-finger peach root (wu zhi mao tao) is a root that belongs to the fig family (Ficus hirta), and is also known as “Southern Astragalus” because its qi-tonifying properties are considered similar to astragalus (bei qi), albeit gentler and more broadly suited to all body types. It has a pleasant, mild coconut-like aroma that makes soups very agreeable, and is a valued household tonic across southern Chinese communities.
Paired with finger citron (fo shou), which is traditionally used to harmonise the liver and spleen and relieve digestive tension, this soup is a well-regarded combination for anyone who experiences stomach discomfort, bloating, or the kind of chronic gastritis that responds to stress and emotional tension. It suits virtually any constitution, including those who find richer tonics too warming.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- Suitable for almost all body types, including children and the elderly; this is one of its most valued qualities
- Particularly beneficial for those with chronic gastritis, stomach ulcers, liver-spleen disharmony, or general qi deficiency with fatigue
- Those with active fever or excess heat should avoid this soup; wait until the fever resolves
- If stomach symptoms are severe, persistent, or unexplained, please consult a doctor
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Five-finger peach root (wu zhi mao tao, 五指毛桃 / Ficus hirta): The root of a wild fig species; also known as wu zhi niu nai (five-finger milk), tu huang qi (southern astragalus), or nan qi. Its qi-tonifying power is considered gentler than astragalus but with the advantage that it does not cause stagnation — making it suitable for virtually any constitution, including those who are normally cautious about tonics. Traditionally used for fatigue, gastric pain, and liver conditions
- Finger citron (fo shou, 佛手 / Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis): An aromatic citrus variety dried into slices; in Chinese herbal medicine it is associated with soothing the liver, harmonising the spleen and stomach, moving qi, and relieving pain. Particularly valued for gastric tension related to emotional stress
- Red jujube dates (hong zao, 红枣): Tonify the spleen and stomach, nourish the blood, and harmonise the other ingredients in the soup
Ingredients (4 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Five-finger peach root | 75 g (2 liang) | Soak and rinse well before use; found at Chinese herbal medicine shops |
| Dried finger citron | 9 g (3 qian) | Rinse briefly |
| Lean pork | 225 g (6 liang) | Blanch in boiling water to remove impurities; slice |
| Red jujube dates | 6 pieces |
Method
- Soak the five-finger peach root in fresh water for at least 30 minutes; rinse thoroughly to remove any soil or residue.
- Rinse the dried finger citron briefly.
- Slice the lean pork and blanch in boiling water for a few minutes to remove impurities; drain.
- Place all ingredients in a pot with 8 bowls of water (approximately 1.6 litres).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a medium-low simmer and cook for about 2 hours until reduced to approximately 4 bowls.
- Serve the soup; also eat some of the pork and dates for the full benefit.
Bro Niu’s tips
Five-finger peach root has a distinct but mild coconut-like aroma — a pleasant and approachable scent that makes this a popular soup even with those who are not used to herbal soups. The soup is gentle and suitable for regular use: one to three times per week until symptoms improve. If the faint herbal taste is a little strong for your palate, simply use a smaller amount of the root, or pair it with a sweeter ingredient like apple. Both five-finger peach root and finger citron are available at Chinese herbal medicine shops.
Community questions answered (selected)
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Q (Linda): I have gastritis but I am also seeing a doctor and taking Western medicine. Can I still drink this soup once or twice a week? Bro Niu: This soup can be drunk while taking Western medicines — one to three times a week until symptoms improve.
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Q (reader): Can pregnant women drink this soup? Bro Niu: Yes, pregnant women can drink five-finger peach root soup.
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Q (T): My son is 18 months old, his body is weak and his spleen and stomach are not strong — he catches colds easily and doesn’t sleep well. Can he have five-finger peach root soup? Bro Niu: You can try this combination: five-finger peach root 1 liang, Chinese yam 1 liang, lotus seeds 1 liang, lily bulb 1 liang, and 8 red dates — simmer with pork shin. This tonifies the spleen, calms the heart, and supports restful sleep. The whole family can drink it.
Published March 31, 2010 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 4 min read.
