Pears are a wonderful seasonal fruit that helps nourish the traditional chinese medicine (TCM) Lung and Large Intestine. In 5 element theory, the lung and large intestine are associated with the metal element. The color associated with the metal element is white. Therefore, white-fleshed fruit and vegetables support the lungs and large intestine! Cool, right?

Pears, especially asian pears, have a special property that helps moisten the lungs and large intestine. During the fall and winter season, I recommend baking the pears to add warmth which make them easier to digest. A drizzle of honey supplements the TCM spleen and walnuts help with constipation. If you are experiencing internal heat signs such as heartburn, acid reflux, temporal headaches, hot flashes, etc., do not add cinnamon.

This recipe is best if you are experiencing dry skin, dry cough, dry throat, or constipation due to dryness. My hands used to get very dry and red during the winter but since I started eating baked pears I have smooth, moist skin!

You can find asian pears at Trader Joes, Sprouts, and the Asian Market. They may not be organic so wash them well. You can easily substitute other types of organic pears too. Use what is available to you!

If you would like some variety- try my sweet pear soup!

Temperature: Slightly Warming

Flavor: Sweet, Slightly Sour

Actions: clears phlegm, moistens lungs and intestines

Organs: Lung, Large Intestine

Use: Cough, sore throat, phlegm in the throat, constipation, dry skin, loss of voice

Ingredients (2 servings)

•  2 Pears- any variety, sliced

• 1 Tsp Coconut Oil 

 Optional:

• 1 Tbsp Honey

• 1/4 cup Walnuts

• Sprinkle of Cinnamon

 Preparations

1. Pre- heat oven at 350 degrees.

2. Slice Pears and place in a Pyrex dish coated with coconut oil.

3. Option: lightly drizzle with honey, add walnuts, and sprinkle cinnamon on top of pears.

4. Bake for 20 minutes- until soft (slightly browned).