Is it okay to drink Cornus officinalis (Chinese cornel) after exercising?
Mar 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Whether one can consume Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) after exercise depends on individual circumstances and requires specific analysis. If the activity is light to moderate intensity, consuming an appropriate amount of Cornus officinalis is generally acceptable. However, if the exercise is high intensity, it is not recommended. Before consumption, it is advisable to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or nutrition expert to ensure safety and health. Additionally, attention should be paid to moderate consumption in order to avoid side effects caused by excessive intake.
Whether one can consume Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) after exercise depends on individual circumstances. If the activity is light to moderate intensity, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, consuming an appropriate amount of Cornus officinalis is generally acceptable. However, if the exercise is high intensity, it is not recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:
In traditional Chinese medicine theory, Cornus officinalis has functions such as consolidating vital energy, invigorating the spirit, and nourishing the liver and kidneys. If engaging in light to moderate exercise and without a history of allergy to Cornus officinalis, consuming an appropriate amount of Cornus officinalis water after exercise may help restore energy and promote physical recovery.
However, for high-intensity activities such as long-distance running or strength training, it is important to first replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during exercise rather than immediately consuming herbal remedies. At this time, one should initially drink plain water or a sports drink to quickly replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Furthermore, Cornus officinalis has a certain blood sugar-lowering effect. After high-intensity exercise, when blood glucose levels are low, excessive consumption may lead to hypoglycemic symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue.
Before consuming Cornus officinalis, it is recommended to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or nutrition expert to ensure safety and health. Also, pay attention to moderate consumption to avoid side effects caused by excessive intake.
References
[1] Yu Hongwei. The Same Source of Medicine and Food - Cornus Officinalis [J]. Henan Agriculture, 2024, (15): 2. DOI: 10.15904/j.cnki.hnny.2024.15.036.
[2] Shi Yunxin, Yang Jia, Pan Shiqin, et al. Quality Characteristics of Polysaccharides Extracted from Cornus Officinalis Using Different Methods [J]. Journal of Southern Agriculture, 2024, 55(07): 2031-2043.
In traditional Chinese medicine theory, Cornus officinalis has functions such as consolidating vital energy, invigorating the spirit, and nourishing the liver and kidneys. If engaging in light to moderate exercise and without a history of allergy to Cornus officinalis, consuming an appropriate amount of Cornus officinalis water after exercise may help restore energy and promote physical recovery.
However, for high-intensity activities such as long-distance running or strength training, it is important to first replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during exercise rather than immediately consuming herbal remedies. At this time, one should initially drink plain water or a sports drink to quickly replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Furthermore, Cornus officinalis has a certain blood sugar-lowering effect. After high-intensity exercise, when blood glucose levels are low, excessive consumption may lead to hypoglycemic symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue.
Before consuming Cornus officinalis, it is recommended to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner or nutrition expert to ensure safety and health. Also, pay attention to moderate consumption to avoid side effects caused by excessive intake.
References
[1] Yu Hongwei. The Same Source of Medicine and Food - Cornus Officinalis [J]. Henan Agriculture, 2024, (15): 2. DOI: 10.15904/j.cnki.hnny.2024.15.036.
[2] Shi Yunxin, Yang Jia, Pan Shiqin, et al. Quality Characteristics of Polysaccharides Extracted from Cornus Officinalis Using Different Methods [J]. Journal of Southern Agriculture, 2024, 55(07): 2031-2043.
