Guilinggao – A Classic Medicinal Dessert from Guangxi

Guilinggao is a traditional Chinese medicinal food from Wuzhou, Guangxi. Its main ingredients include the Chinese three-striped box turtle, smilax glabra (tufuling), licorice root, and other traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. The finished product is a black or brown jelly with a smooth texture, a light herbal aroma, and a mildly sweet, refreshing taste. For many people in southern China, it is a beloved traditional treat for cooling down during the summer. 

The origins of guilinggao can be traced back to the late Southern Song Dynasty. A military commander retreated with his troops to what is now Guangdong. The hot, humid climate soon took its toll, and many soldiers suffered from heatstroke and ailments associated with excessive internal dampness and heat. The imperial physician accompanying the army adapted a court-preserved medicinal recipe originally intended to clear heat and dispel dampness. He added the local herb xiancao (Mesona chinensis), also known as grass jelly herb, to enhance its cooling effect, then simmered the mixture into a jelly-like preparation. Initially, it served only to relieve the soldiers' suffering, but over time the recipe spread among local communities and became a distinctive medicinal food of the Lingnan region. 

Guilinggao is best enjoyed chilled in the summer, offering a refreshing way to beat the heat. Modern variations are often served with fresh fruit, crushed nuts, honey, or syrup, enriching both the flavour and texture. With every spoonful, you get a smooth, springy bite with a delicate sweetness and a pleasant lingering aftertaste, making it an irresistible summer treat.