pear (Pyrus communis)
OriginThe fruit of the gods and the gardens
Homer described pear trees in Alcinous' garden - even then a sign of wealth and gardening expertise.
The cultivated pear is descended from wild pears from the Caucasus and Western Asia. The Greeks and Romans knew dozens of varieties; in the Baroque period, the pear was the noble dessert fruit of the nobility, and French gardeners bred the meltingly tender butter pears, whose name "Beurré" is still used today.
In Germany, pears were long as important as apples. Many old varieties now only grow in traditional orchards; Conference, Williams Christ, and Abate Fetel dominate the market. Pears don't fully ripen on the tree—they are harvested firm and become soft and aromatic at room temperature.
To useWhat the pear does for you
A medium-sized pear yields approximately 5 to 6 g. Dietary fiber It contains more vitamin C than most other fruits, as well as potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K, copper, and polyphenols, which are found primarily in the peel. Because it contains very little acid, it is usually well tolerated by people with sensitive stomachs and heartburn.
Pears contain a lot Fructose and sorbitol. This is a disadvantage for those with irritable bowel syndrome, but an advantage for those with constipation: Sorbitol draws water into the intestines and softens the stool. Pear juice and stewed pears are therefore traditional, gentle remedies for sluggish digestion – also for children.
Large observational studies show that people who eat a lot of fruit have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Pears are not an exception, but rather a good, easily digestible everyday fruit.
IngredientsThat's what's in the brain
Pears contain water, fructose (significantly more than glucose), Sorbit, soluble and insoluble Dietary fiber, These include pectin and lignin in the small stone cells, which give the stone its granular texture. The peel also contains potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K, copper, and polyphenols such as chlorogenic acid, arbutin, and flavonols.
Like all pome fruits, the kernels contain amygdalin - eating whole kernels is harmless.
Enhanced combinationsWhat makes the bulb stronger
The pear is sweet and mild - it loves cheese, nuts, spices and even bacon.
Pears, beans and bacon - the North German classic of sweet and salty flavors.
Pear, Gorgonzola, walnuts - as a salad, tart or on a cheese board.
Stewed pears with winter spices.
The peel contains a lot of fiber and polyphenols - wash it well and leave it on.
Pear in porridge replaces sugar.
Steamed pear with honey - a traditional Chinese remedy for dry coughs.
What contradicts itselfIt's best to avoid these combinations.
Fructose and sorbitol are FODMAPs - pears are among the most common triggers of bloating.
Pears contain more fructose than glucose - they are usually poorly tolerated.
Pears are sensitive to ethylene and quickly become mealy.
Allow the pears to ripen at room temperature until they yield slightly at the stem.
High in sugar, low in fiber - the juice has a laxative rather than a satiating effect.
Like apples, raw pears can cause a tingling sensation in the mouth - cooked pears are usually well tolerated.
In the kitchenWhere she belongs
- Pears, beans and baconNorth German stew with green beans.
- Pear HelenePoached pear with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce.
- Pear and Gorgonzola saladWith arugula and walnuts.
- Stewed pearCinnamon as a breakfast or bland food.
- pear cakeWith almonds or as a tart.
- Pear chutneyGinger with cheese.
- pear pureeFor babies and toddlers.
- Pear breadFruit bread with dried pears.
- Pear porridgeWith oats and cardamom.
- Steamed pear with honeyThe Chinese cough remedy.
As a home remedySuffocated pear for a dry cough
Pear with honey, steamed
- Wash a ripe pear, cut off the top and hollow out the core.
- Place a teaspoon of honey into the cavity, then replace the lid.
- Steam the pear in a bowl in a steamer basket or water bath for 30 to 40 minutes until it is soft.
- Spoon out the hot liquid, including any juice that has accumulated.
A dry, scratchy cough and an irritated throat. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), pears are considered moistening for the lungs; steamed pears with rock candy or honey are an old family remedy. Warmth, liquid, and honey are soothing for the throat – however, pears have not been scientifically proven to relieve coughs.
One to two pears a day. No honey for infants under one year old. A cough lasting longer than three weeks, accompanied by fever or shortness of breath, requires a doctor's visit.
Ayurveda & TCMWhat the old systems say
Ayurveda
The pear (AmritaphalaIn Ayurveda, it is considered sweet, astringent, and cooling. It calms Pitta, is recommended for heat and inflammation, and can increase Vata when raw – therefore, it should be steamed with warming spices.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the pear (LiSweet, slightly sour, and cooling. It is said to moisten the lungs, cool heat, loosen mucus, and quench thirst – the classic fruit for a dry cough and throat in autumn.
Warning noticesWhen you should be careful
Please note
- Irritable bowel syndrome: Fructose and sorbitol - a common cause of flatulence.
- Fructose malabsorption: usually poorly tolerated.
- Allergy: Raw pears are often problematic for people with birch pollen allergies; cooked pears are better.
- Toddlers: Pear juice has a laxative effect - but not in large quantities.
- Honey: Not for infants under one year old.
This page provides information and does not replace medical advice. If symptoms persist, please consult a doctor.
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SourcesWhat is this based on?
- Reiland H, Slavin J. Systematic review of pears and health. Nutrition Today 2015; 50(6): 301–305.
- Gibson PR, Shepherd SJ. Evidence-based dietary management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms: the FODMAP approach. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology 2010; 25(2): 252–258.
- Aune D et al. Fruit and vegetable intake and the risk of cardiovascular disease, total cancer and all-cause mortality - a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective studies. International Journal of Epidemiology 2017; 46(3): 1029–1056.
- Bensky D et al. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. 3rd edition, Eastland Press 2004.
- USDA FoodData Central: Pears, raw.
