Pear

Latin Name
Pyrus communis

Herb Class/Action
• Nutritive tonic
• Demulcent
• Antioxidant
• Mild laxative
• Lung tonic
• Cooling expectorant

Parts Used
• Fresh fruit
• Peel
• Dried pear slices
• Pear syrup or juice

Flavors
• Sweet
• Mildly astringent
• Juicy and light

Energetics
• Cooling
• Moistening
• Soothing
• Light

Traditional Benefits
Pears have long been valued in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and European herbalism as a food-medicine hybrid—used to hydrate, nourish, and calm the body. Their high water and fiber content makes them especially soothing to the lungs and bowels. In Chinese herbalism, pears are a classic remedy for dry coughs and lung heat. In the West, they’ve been cherished for digestive comfort and as a gentle remedy for constipation in children, the elderly, or the convalescent.

A Natural Allergy Ally
Pears are hypoallergenic and one of the first fruits introduced to babies. Their anti-inflammatory compounds and quercetin content (especially in the skin) may help stabilize histamine response and calm irritated mucous membranes.

A Herb for Seasonal Support
Pears shine in the autumn, aligning with lung and colon health in traditional systems like TCM. Their cooling and moistening properties help counterbalance the dryness of fall, making them excellent in teas, syrups, or fresh for supporting immunity and hydration during cold season.

How It Works
Pears are rich in soluble fiber (especially pectin), which helps regulate digestion, support gut flora, and gently ease constipation. Their natural sugars are easy on the pancreas and beneficial for blood sugar stability. The skin contains flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, which offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support. Pears are also a source of vitamin C, copper, and potassium—important for tissue repair, immunity, and fluid balance. In traditional Chinese medicine, pears are said to nourish yin, moisten the lungs, and clear heat.

Best Ways to Use It
Fresh Fruit: Eaten raw to soothe digestion and hydrate the body.
Cooked Pears: Stewed or poached with cinnamon for lung and throat support.
Dried Slices: Added to teas or eaten as snacks for gentle nourishment.
Pear Syrup or Juice: Used traditionally to soothe coughs and throat dryness.
TCM Style Decoction: Simmer pears with ginger and honey for a lung tonic.

Fun Fact
In ancient Greek mythology, pears were sacred to Hera and Aphrodite, symbolizing femininity, love, and fertility. In TCM, pears are often given to singers and orators to keep the throat smooth and hydrated.

A Herb for Modern Use
Pears are making a comeback as functional food in wellness circles. Pear juice and extracts are featured in throat lozenges, gut health drinks, and clean-eating diets. Herbalists and holistic nutritionists recommend pears for clients with sensitive digestion, dry coughs, hot flashes, or depleted states due to stress or illness.

Safety Considerations
Generally safe and well-tolerated by all age groups. For those with oral allergy syndrome (OAS), cooked pears may be better tolerated than raw. Choose organic when possible, as conventionally grown pears may have pesticide residues.