Huazhou sees potential of Huajuhong as 'medicine and food'

Huajuhong, scientifically known as Citrus grandis or "Southern Ginseng" in China, has transcended its traditional role as a medicinal herb to become a key ingredient in over 200 products ranging from beer to toothpaste, from steamed water to essential oils.

The Huazhou municipal government in Guangdong province, has been vigorously developing the industry of Huajuhong, which is recognized for its curative effects on cough relief and phlegm reduction. The versatile fruit has been included in the national list of substances that are traditionally both "medicine and food" since last August.

The official recognition has spurred Huazhou to explore beyond the plant's fundamental medicinal properties, extending its application into various industries.

The city has already achieved a significant planting area of over 130,000 mu, yielding an annual output of more than 60,000 tons of fresh fruits and 12,000 tons of dried fruits.

The entire industry chain's annual output value has surpassed 10 billion yuan, with a complete industrial chain integrating planting, processing, and sales now in place.