The solar terms and festivals are somewhat similar, as both have their own historical origins, customs and taboos, as well as their own dietary culture. Therefore, let's now talk about the diet and other taboos on the day of Guyu.

What are the taboos on Guyu?

One thing to do on Guyu is to "forbid scorpions". Scorpions are poisonous creatures and are considered one of the "five poisons", and they are objects of avoidance. In Linyi, Shanxi, there is a custom of forbidding scorpions during Guyu. Locals will sprinkle ash wine on the walls, and this activity is called "forbidding scorpions". In areas such as Tongguan and Mizhi, Shaanxi, people will paste scorpion-repelling talismans on the walls, which is also an activity to eliminate scorpions. In addition, if it does not rain on Guyu, it is considered an omen of a poor harvest, and the people avoid it. In areas such as Longshan, Hunan, it is considered auspicious for it to rain on Guyu Day, with a proverb saying "Qingming is bright, Guyu is dark". However, from a meteorological perspective, the Guyu solar term usually has more rainfall.

What should be eaten during the Guyu solar term?

Witlof
In April and May of spring, it is the time to eat witlof. Witlof is rich in nutrition and is called "natural treasure" and "magic grass" by ancient people, showing how much it is loved by people. Moreover, eating witlof during this season can have a good health-preserving effect and protect our stomachs.
Spinach
Among various vegetables, spinach is the most suitable to eat during this season. However, when we eat spinach, we need to note that spinach contains a lot of oxalic acid, which hinders the absorption of calcium by the human body. Therefore, when eating spinach, we should blanch it first. Also, spinach should not be cooked together with foods high in calcium, such as tofu.

What are the customs during this solar term?

Walking on Guyu
There was a custom of "walking on Guyu" in ancient times. On Guyu Day, young women would visit relatives in different villages, and some would go out into the wilderness and return after a walk, symbolizing the integration with nature and physical fitness. In some areas of China, the custom of walking on Guyu is still preserved.
Drinking Guyu Tea
In the south, there is a custom of picking tea on Guyu Day. It is said that drinking tea on this day can clear heat, ward off evil spirits, and improve eyesight. Therefore, on Guyu Day, regardless of the weather, people will go to the tea mountains to pick some new tea and drink it.