Unlocking the Health Benefits of Korean Plum Drink

January 2, 2026 •

3 min read

According to a 2025 study published in the journal MDPI, the lactic acid fermentation of plum syrup by-products significantly enhances its antioxidant activity. This traditional Korean plum drink, known as maesil-cha, is made from fermented green plums and is a beloved folk remedy and refreshing beverage, offering an array of health benefits from digestive aid to fatigue recovery.

Quick Summary

Korean plum drink, made from fermented green plum extract, is a time-honored elixir praised for its potent digestive, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties, supporting overall vitality and well-being.

Key Points

Supports Digestive Health: The organic acids in fermented plum extract, such as citric acid, aid digestion and help to neutralize harmful bacteria in the gut, alleviating issues like indigestion and diarrhea.
Rich in Antioxidants: Fermentation increases the concentration and bioavailability of powerful antioxidants, like polyphenols and flavonoids, which combat cellular damage caused by free radicals.
Fights Fatigue: The high level of citric acid helps break down lactic acid in the body, providing a natural and effective way to overcome fatigue and increase overall vitality.
Boosts the Immune System: A natural source of immune-supporting vitamins and minerals, maesil-cha also has demonstrated antimicrobial effects that help fight off harmful bacteria.
Promotes Liver Detoxification: Traditionally used to support liver function, plum drink aids in the body's natural detoxification processes, which contributes to overall health and recovery.
Reduces Inflammation: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds found in plum extract have been shown to help soothe inflammation and combat related chronic diseases.
Safe for Consumption after Fermentation: While raw plum seeds contain a toxin, the essential long fermentation process breaks down this compound, making the resulting syrup safe and beneficial.

A Traditional Elixir with Modern Appeal

Korean plum drink, or maesil-cha, is more than just a sweet and tangy beverage; it is a fermented superfood with deep roots in East Asian traditional medicine. Made from unripe green plums (maesil) fermented with sugar for an extended period to create a concentrated syrup (maesil-cheong), the drink is then diluted with water, hot or cold, to create a restorative and functional beverage. The fermentation process transforms the plums' nutritional profile, enhancing their health-promoting compounds and making the drink a powerhouse of goodness. This article explores the numerous, scientifically-backed benefits of incorporating Korean plum drink into your daily routine.

Remarkable Digestive Support

Perhaps the most widely recognized benefit of Korean plum drink is its ability to aid digestion and alleviate various gastrointestinal discomforts. The fermented nature of the syrup is key to this effect.

Powerful Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects

Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body, is linked to numerous chronic diseases. The bioactive compounds in Korean plum drink help to counteract this damage.

Fatigue Reduction and Energy Promotion

If you are feeling sluggish or fatigued, a glass of maesil-cha might be just what you need. Traditional Korean medicine has long used plums to aid in overcoming fatigue.

Replenishing the body: The citric acid found in high concentrations in green plums helps the body metabolize lactic acid, a compound that builds up during strenuous physical activity and causes fatigue. By helping to break down lactic acid, the drink accelerates recovery and restores energy levels.
Boosting liver function: The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification and energy metabolism. Studies suggest that plum extract can improve liver function and help detoxify waste in the body, which contributes to overall vitality.
Stimulating appetite: For those feeling lethargic due to poor appetite, the pleasantly sour and sweet taste of the plum drink can help stimulate the appetite and aid in overall wellness.

Immune System Enhancement and Antibacterial Properties

In addition to its antioxidant content, Korean plum drink offers support for the immune system and exhibits notable antibacterial properties.

Vitamin C and minerals: While the concentration can vary depending on the preparation method, plum extract is a source of Vitamin C and other minerals, which are essential for a healthy immune response.
Natural antibacterial agent: Historically, maesil has been used as a natural antibacterial agent. Research has confirmed its antimicrobial activities against various bacteria, including some responsible for food poisoning. This is why the drink is a traditional remedy for upset stomachs and diarrhea.

Comparison: Fresh Plums vs. Fermented Maesil-cheong

Understanding the difference between fresh plums and the fermented extract highlights the unique benefits of the drink.


Feature	Fresh Green Plums (Maesil)	Fermented Plum Extract (Maesil-cheong)
Taste	Extremely sour and tart; not eaten raw.	Sweet and tangy, with a complex, deep flavor developed during fermentation.
Toxicity	Seeds and flesh contain amygdalin, which is toxic when consumed raw.	Fermentation process of at least 9 to 12 months significantly reduces and degrades amygdalin content, making it safe for consumption.
Digestive Effect	Moderate source of fiber and natural digestive enzymes.	Rich in organic acids like citric acid, malic acid, and lactic acid (from fermentation), which aid digestion and promote gut health.
Antioxidant Content	Contains antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids.	Fermentation and aging can increase the bioavailability and concentration of antioxidants.
Probiotic Content	Does not contain live probiotics.	When properly made with lactic acid fermentation, it can contain beneficial probiotics and act as a prebiotic to feed existing gut bacteria.

Conclusion: A Delicious and Wholesome Addition

Korean plum drink, or maesil-cha, offers a holistic range of health benefits that are supported by both centuries of traditional use and modern scientific inquiry. From its powerful digestive aid and robust antioxidant profile to its proven anti-inflammatory and fatigue-reducing effects, this fermented beverage is a delicious and wholesome addition to any diet. It serves as a natural and flavorful way to support your body's vital functions and enjoy a taste of Korean heritage. When purchasing, look for traditionally fermented extracts and be mindful of added sugars. For those making it at home, remember the importance of proper fermentation and aging to ensure safety and maximize the beneficial compounds. Embracing this traditional remedy could be a simple, yet impactful step towards better health.

An excellent resource for those looking to understand the traditional uses and preparation of maesil is the Korean cooking website Maangchi, which provides detailed insights into this ingredient's cultural significance and culinary applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Maesil-cha is the Korean term for plum tea, a traditional beverage made from a syrup (maesil-cheong) derived from fermenting green plums (maesil) with sugar for an extended period.

Since the syrup is made by fermenting plums in sugar, it does contain a high sugar content. The key is moderation, as with any concentrated fruit juice or syrup. Some commercial products may contain less added sugar, while homemade versions can be controlled.

No, raw plum seeds contain amygdalin, a toxic substance. However, the long fermentation process of at least 9 to 12 months significantly reduces and degrades this compound, rendering the final syrup safe for consumption.

Yes, in Korean tradition, maesil-cha is often consumed to alleviate hangover symptoms. Its detoxifying and fatigue-reducing properties are believed to help the body recover after alcohol consumption.

When properly fermented, the plum extract can contain beneficial lactic acid bacteria, which act as probiotics to support gut health. The organic acids also act as prebiotics, feeding the healthy bacteria already present.

Maesil-cha can be enjoyed in many ways. In summer, it is often served cold with sparkling or chilled water and ice. During colder months, it can be served hot to warm the body. The syrup can also be used in marinades and salad dressings.

While prune juice is primarily known for its laxative effect due to fiber and sorbitol, Korean plum drink aids digestion by providing organic acids that support overall gut function and inhibit harmful bacteria. The benefit is more about gut health balance than just regularity.