The main fruits and vegetables of autumn

Chinese dietetics

Nourishing the Lung and Spleen, easing dryness

Beyond the 5 star foods presented in our article on immunity, here is a fuller overview of seasonal fruits and vegetables, classified by their main action in Chinese dietetics.

Fruits — nourishing Yin, moistening the Lung

• Pear — the star of autumn: it moistens, eases dry coughs and nourishes the body’s fluids.
• Apple — tonifies the Spleen (the digestive system), supports digestion, softens dryness.
• Grapes — neutral to slightly cool in nature, they nourish Yin and Blood, moisten and gently bring energy: a very suitable fruit for this season.
• Fig — nourishes Yin, supports transit, moistens dryness.
• Red date (jujube) — tonifies Qi and Blood, calms the mind, supports immunity.

Vegetables — supporting the Spleen and strengthening Qi

• White radish (daikon) — supports the Lung and helps Qi descend; particularly well suited slow-simmered (see the nuances in our article on the 5 foods for immunity).
• Turnip — tonifies the Spleen, transforms phlegm, gentle on digestion.
• Leek — warms and supports Qi, promotes circulation, good for the Lung without excess.
• Carrot — tonifies the Spleen and Blood, beneficial for eyesight and skin.
• Squash — tonifies the Spleen, brings energy and gently warms.

Other seasonal allies

• Chestnut — tonifies the Spleen and Kidneys, brings warmth and energy.
• Mushrooms — regulate Qi, support immunity, light and beneficial for the Spleen.
• Walnuts — nourish Yin and the Kidneys, counter dryness, good for the brain.
• Black sesame — nourishes Yin and Blood, moistens the intestines, strengthens hair and skin.
• Fresh ginger — warms the centre, supports digestion, helps avoid excess Cold.

In practice: favour cooked, warm, lightly spiced foods, and limit raw, cold food and an excess of dry or pungent foods — the same principle detailed in our reference article on autumn.

These are general principles of Chinese dietetics and do not replace personalised medical advice.

To go further on autumn