This vegetable is also known as “Buddha’s Hand gourd sprouts” because of its slender, curling shape, which resembles the mythical “dragon’s whiskers.”

Chayote shoots (the tender tips of the chayote plant) are highly nutritious. They are currently in peak harvest season. According to a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, chayote shoots can help clear heat from the lungs, relieve coughing, support children’s height development, and may help older adults prevent brain degeneration. However, there are two important dietary cautions to remember.

People with Gout Can Also Eat Chayote Shoots

Chayote shoots are the young tender vines of the Chayote plant. They are also called “Buddha’s Hand gourd sprouts.” Their delicate, curling tendrils resemble the legendary dragon’s whiskers, which is how they got this poetic name.

The peak harvest season runs from April to October, with April and May being the best months.

Ma Qi Jie, a traditional Chinese medicine doctor from Hong Kong, recommends eating more chayote shoots in spring because they are rich in vitamins A, B1, and B2, as well as minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.

In addition, they are high in dietary fiber, extremely low in calories, and contain no cholesterol. Dr. Ma explained:

“During the spring and summer season, you can eat plenty of them without concern. This is a low-purine food, so people with gout can eat it safely.”

Benefits of Chayote Shoots: Strengthen Digestion, Relieve Cough, and Help Prevent Memory Loss

Dr. Ma noted that chayote shoots nourish the spleen, stomach, and lung meridians in traditional Chinese medicine. They are believed to:

• Clear heat from the lungs
• Strengthen the spleen and stimulate appetite
• Soothe the liver
• Relieve coughing
• Ease symptoms of heat-type colds, such as dry throat, phlegmy cough, and headaches

Since the human body cannot produce zinc on its own and must obtain it through food, chayote shoots are valued for their high zinc content. Zinc helps:

• Maintain a healthy immune system
• Reduce inflammation
• Support growth and development

How to Choose Fresh Chayote Shoots

Chayote shoots are one of the few vegetables that generally require little or no pesticide use and grow vigorously in natural conditions.

Experienced shoppers suggest checking the tendrils:

• Straight tendrils indicate tender, young shoots.
• Excessively curled tendrils indicate older, tougher shoots.

Because chayote shoots do not keep well and become fibrous quickly, they are best cooked while fresh.

Two Important Precautions When Eating Chayote Shoots

Despite their many benefits, there are two key cautions to keep in mind.

1. People with Weak Digestion Should Be Careful

Chayote shoots are high in fiber, which may place additional strain on the digestive system in people with sensitive stomachs or gastrointestinal disorders. Those with digestive issues should avoid eating large quantities.

2. Avoid Eating Them with Lamb and Zucchini

According to traditional dietary beliefs, chayote shoots should not be eaten together with:

• Lamb
• Zucchini

These combinations are believed to increase the risk of diarrhea.

In traditional Chinese medicine, lamb is considered a “warming” food, while chayote shoots are considered “cooling.” This contrast is thought to disrupt digestion. Zucchini and chayote shoots are both considered cooling foods, which may also contribute to digestive upset when eaten together.

Delicious Ways to Prepare Chayote Shoots

Chayote shoots can be prepared in many ways, including:

• Stir-frying
• Tossing into salads
• Stir-frying with eggs

These methods preserve their signature crisp texture.

Because chayote shoots are considered cooling in nature, traditional Chinese medicine recommends adding Sesame oil and sliced Ginger when stir-frying to help balance their cooling properties.

Dr. Ma especially recommends a simple stir-fry method that is both easy to prepare and appealing to the whole family.