Is Grass Jelly Heaty or Cooling? Unpacking the Herbal Dessert's Properties

December 22, 2025 •

4 min read

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), practitioners have observed the effects of food on the body for over 2,000 years, categorizing items as 'heaty' (yang) or 'cooling' (yin). Grass jelly is firmly placed in the 'cooling' category, known for its ability to reduce internal body heat, especially during hot weather.

Quick Summary

Grass jelly is considered a cooling food in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), used to balance the body's internal heat and provide a refreshing, soothing effect. It is derived from the Mesona chinensis plant and is often consumed as a dessert or beverage to combat tropical heat. The concept contrasts with 'heaty' foods that increase internal warmth.

Key Points

Cooling Effect: In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), grass jelly is considered a 'cooling' food that helps balance the body's internal heat and combat 'heatiness'.
Natural Origin: It is derived from the Mesona chinensis plant, a cousin of the mint family, which contributes to its herbal and cooling nature.
Symptom Relief: Traditionally, grass jelly is used to alleviate symptoms of excess internal heat, such as indigestion, heartburn, and skin issues.
High in Hydration: The jelly has a high water content, which naturally aids hydration and provides a refreshing sensation, especially during warm weather.
Healthier Alternative: Compared to many other dessert toppings, grass jelly is naturally low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making it a healthier choice.
Versatile Ingredient: It can be enjoyed in various forms, from cubed in bubble tea to mixed in sweet soups or served simply with syrup.

Understanding the Concept of 'Heaty' vs. 'Cooling'

The distinction between 'heaty' and 'cooling' is a fundamental principle in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Unlike Western medicine, which views illnesses in terms of pathogens and physical symptoms, TCM focuses on the body's balance of yin (cooling) and yang (heaty) energies. A balanced body is considered healthy, while an excess of either energy can lead to discomfort or illness. 'Heaty' foods are believed to increase the body's internal temperature and metabolism, while 'cooling' foods are thought to reduce inflammation and internal heat.

Symptoms of Body Imbalance

When a person has an excess of 'heatiness,' they may experience symptoms like sore throat, acne, ulcers, or dry mouth. Conversely, an excess of 'cooling' energy can manifest as fatigue, cold limbs, or poor circulation. A TCM practitioner would recommend incorporating opposing foods to restore equilibrium. For instance, someone experiencing 'heaty' symptoms might be advised to consume more cooling foods like grass jelly.

The Cooling Properties of Grass Jelly

Grass jelly's classification as a cooling food comes from the properties of its primary ingredient: the Mesona chinensis plant, a member of the mint family. In traditional practices, the leaves and stalks are boiled, and the resulting liquid is set into a jelly. Historically, it was used as a medicine to alleviate heatstroke in hot climates.

Reasons grass jelly is considered cooling:

Hydration: The high water content in grass jelly aids hydration, which helps to cool the body naturally.
Herbal Essence: The Mesona chinensis plant itself is regarded as a cooling herb in TCM.
Relief from Heat: It has been traditionally used to relieve symptoms associated with internal 'heat,' such as indigestion and heartburn.

Making Your Own Grass Jelly

While canned and powdered grass jelly are widely available, making it from scratch offers a more authentic experience. The process typically involves boiling the dried stems and leaves of the Mesona plant with water for several hours until the liquid has thickened and is ready to set. Starches or gelling agents like agar-agar can be added to aid in the setting process. The result is a fragrant, dark, and silky jelly. It's often served chilled with a drizzle of honey, sweetened condensed milk, or soy milk for a refreshing dessert.

Grass Jelly vs. Other Common Desserts


Feature	Grass Jelly	Tapioca Pearls (Boba)	Ice Cream
TCM Energy	Cooling (Yin)	Neutral to Slightly Warming	Neutral to Warming
Primary Ingredient	Mesona chinensis plant	Cassava root starch	Dairy products, sugar
Texture	Smooth, silky, and slightly firm	Chewy and bouncy	Smooth and creamy
Calorie Count	Naturally low in calories	High in carbohydrates and sugar	High in calories and sugar
Flavor	Mild, herbal, and slightly bitter	Often neutral, depending on preparation	Sweet and rich
Health Benefits	Antioxidant properties, high in fiber, aids digestion	Primarily carbohydrate-based energy	Some nutrients, but high in sugar and fat

Versatile Ways to Enjoy Grass Jelly

Grass jelly can be incorporated into many different dishes and beverages. Its mild, slightly bitter herbal flavor makes it a perfect complement to sweeter ingredients. Some popular uses include:

Bubble Tea Topping: A common and delicious add-in for milk teas, providing a smooth texture that contrasts with chewy boba.
Fruit Salad: Cubed grass jelly is a popular addition to Asian fruit salads, often with jackfruit, lychee, and longan.
Sweet Dessert Soup (Chè): In Vietnamese cuisine, it's served as part of a sweet dessert soup with various beans and fruits.
Simple Refreshment: A classic way to enjoy grass jelly is chilled with a light syrup and crushed ice, making for a perfect summer treat.
Herbal Tea: The liquid extract from boiling the Mesona plant can be served warm as a soothing herbal tea, which still retains its cooling properties.

The Verdict: Is Grass Jelly Heaty or Cooling?

To answer the central question: grass jelly is definitively considered a cooling food, particularly within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine. This designation is based on the traditional medicinal properties of the Mesona chinensis plant, which is believed to reduce internal heat and toxins in the body. While modern science may focus on its hydrating, low-calorie, and antioxidant properties, the traditional wisdom remains a key reason for its continued popularity, especially during hot weather. Enjoying grass jelly is a flavorful way to embrace a time-honored tradition and find natural relief from the heat.

For more information on TCM's classification of food, you can explore detailed resources from institutions focused on the practice.

Conclusion

Whether you subscribe to the principles of TCM or simply enjoy a refreshing dessert, grass jelly stands out as a healthy and delicious option. Its natural cooling effects, combined with its unique texture and mild herbal taste, make it a beloved treat in many Asian cultures. By understanding its origins and properties, you can appreciate this versatile dessert for more than just its flavor, but for its traditional role in maintaining a healthy balance.

Frequently Asked Questions

In TCM, 'heaty' refers to foods or conditions that increase the body's 'yang' energy, potentially causing symptoms like sore throat, ulcers, or dry mouth when consumed in excess.

Grass jelly is made from the leaves and stalks of the Mesona chinensis plant, which is boiled with starch and potassium carbonate until it sets into a gelatinous consistency.

Yes, traditional wisdom suggests that grass jelly can aid digestion. It has high fiber content and is believed to soothe digestive issues like indigestion and heartburn.

According to TCM, people with a 'cool' body constitution, who are prone to coldness and fatigue, should consume cooling foods like grass jelly in moderation to maintain balance.

Yes, grass jelly is made from a plant and is generally a suitable dessert for both vegans and vegetarians, particularly when prepared with plant-based milk alternatives.

Symptoms of a 'heaty' constitution can include flushed complexion, acne, bad breath, sore throat, or constipation. A TCM practitioner can provide an accurate diagnosis.

Absolutely. Grass jelly pairs well with many desserts, including fruit salads, bubble tea, and sweet soups, where its mild flavor and unique texture complement other ingredients.