Put your finger into the bottom of the melon where the vine was attached. You should be able to push slightly inwards and when released, the melon should rebound.

Melons are best drunk by themselves. Therefore, do not combine with other fruits, melons or vegetables.

Most of the nutrition from a melon is inside its rind. Therefore, you definitely want to juice the rind and as such, try to get organic melons when possible.

Properties:

Energy: cold
5 Elements: earth
5 Flavors: sweet

General Information:

If you are buying your cantaloupes from a Chinese grocery, then do be aware that in China the cantaloupe is often referred to as "aromatic melon" or "melon of fruits". Additionally, there are many varieties of cantaloupe produced in China and so what you see or find in a Chinese grocery store may vary slightly when compared to a western grocery store.

It is said that the cantaloupes produced in the "Yellow River" valley of China are among the best cantaloupes one can find. The reason for this is the relatively dry climate of the Yellow River valley. Tun–Huang, a town in China, is often referred to as "Cantaloupe City" due to the city produces some of the best cantaloupes in China.

Cautions & Suggestions:

Melons in general have a strong yin (cooling) effect on the body. As a result, it is suggested that melons be avoided by those with a cold (yin) constitution. Individuals with a cold constitution may develop diarrhea and edema if they eat or drink melons. Conversely, those with a hot (yang) constitution will find melons are beneficial in reducing internal heat, helping to relieve constipation and encouraging urination.

It is said that constipation is a sign of too much heat in the body because the heat burns the moisture in the bowels leading to dry stools. If one were to suffer from constipation then traditionally a western doctor or herbalist would suggest you have some fiber. But a Chinese herbalist does not and would not use fiber to cure a person of constipation. Instead, a Chinese herbalist would use herbs that bring moisture to the bowels thus helping to reverse the constipation.

While fiber is needed for bulk, without the moisture, the fiber does no good. Individuals suffering from constipation need to reduce and/or eliminate those foods and beverages that create too much internal heat (yang). Obviously drinking water is crucial but melons along with other yin foods can be used to help promote a healthy bowel movement. When a person has a healthy bowel movement, their stools will be moist, not hard or dry. A healthy bowel movement will coil in the toilet bowl and form a ring. This is an indication that you have both enough fiber and moisture.

When having melons, Chinese herbalists suggest smaller amounts are better. Excessive amounts can lead to low energy, forgetfulness and weak limbs.

Benefits:

Photo by Peggy Greb.

Jesse's fingers are currently on holiday and taking a break. He will be accepting new questions after a rest.

You can read and view questions that have been asked in my juicing questions and answers section.

1. Do you have any tips for Cystic Fibrosis, asthma and respiratory illnesses?
2. How important is a slow speed juicer compared to fast speed?
3. Are There Harmful Side Effects To Juicing One Type of Juice Daily?
4. How Can I Store Vegetables?
5. I Got Ill, For A Short Time, While Juicing
6. Is It Okay To Mix Apples With Vegetable Juice?
7. What Vegetables or Fruits Can Help With Soft Stools or Diarrhea?
8. Can I juice beets everyday?
9. Can I juice carrot greens?
10. Do you have some tips for IBS, constipation and gallstones?