As reported by the Global Times, a Hong Kong man purchased a 14 kg winter melon in Shenzhen for his 3-month-old daughter to use as a cooling toy.
Previously, a Xiaoshan Daily journalist tested the cooling properties of a winter melon. Initially, the skin temperature on their arm was 36.2°C. After holding a 4.6 kg cleaned and peeled winter melon for an hour, their arm temperature dropped to 33.6°C.
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Many parents in China are buying winter melons for their children to hug during sleep as a way to cool down instead of using air conditioning. Photo: Xiaohongshu |
This practice has ancient roots, mentioned in a poem about "embracing melons during summer nights." The cooling effect of winter melons stems from their physical properties and is recognized in traditional Chinese medicine.
Dr. Xiong Shulin at the Hunan University of Chinese Medicine Hospital explained that winter melons, composed of over 95% water, act as natural water pillows. Upon contact, the melon quickly absorbs heat from the skin's surface. In traditional Chinese medicine, winter melon rind is also used as a cooling remedy.
Dr. Yang Zufu from the China Rehabilitation Research Center added that this method is suitable for the elderly, young children, and pregnant women who may find air conditioners or fans uncomfortable. However, he advised against it for those with a weak digestive system or sensitivity to cold, as it could cause stomach aches or diarrhea. "Elderly individuals and children with weaker constitutions can wrap the winter melon in a thin cloth or place it near their pillows for localized cooling," Dr. Yang suggested.
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Chinese netizens are sharing photos of children sleeping with winter melons to beat the summer heat. Photo: Xiaohongshu |
He also noted that users should wash off the fine white hairs on the melon's surface to prevent skin irritation. While sleeping, it's best to hug the melon or rest limbs on it, avoiding direct contact with the stomach. If the melon warms up, it can be cooled in cold water, dried, and reused.
The topic is sparking lively discussion on social media. Some joke about combining air conditioning with the winter melon for double the cooling power, while others wonder about the effectiveness of watermelons.
Minh Phuong (Worldjournal, CTWANT)
