Tortoise-herb jelly is a traditional Chinese medicine that is also often eaten as a dessert. It is made from powdered turtle plastrons and a variety of plants, such as smilax glabra, honeysuckle, and dandelion.

The jelly originated in Wuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. It is black in appearance and slightly bitter in taste. Sweeteners such as honey and condensed milk are usually added to make it more palatable.

Tortoise-herb jelly is black in appearance and slightly bitter in taste. [Photo/VCG]

Heat-clearing and detoxifying, tortoise-herb jelly is thought to be good for the skin, resulting in a healthier complexion if consumed continuously. Other positive effects include improving circulation, relieving itches, reducing acne, and restoring the kidney.

The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine recognized Wuzhou-made tortoise-herb jelly as a Nationally Protected Geographical Indication product in May 2007.