Can I take Cornus officinalis for soothing the liver?
Apr 07, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
For patients with long-term emotional depression accompanied by symptoms of liver and kidney yin deficiency such as weakness and soreness in the lower back and knees, tinnitus, and night sweats, Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) can indirectly alleviate the dysfunction of liver qi regulation caused by insufficient nourishment of the liver through nourishing liver yin and replenishing kidney essence. Combined with peony root (Baishao), Lycium barbarum (Gouqi), and other herbs that soften the liver can help improve symptoms such as dull pain in the hypochondrium and irritability with insomnia. However, it is not recommended for cases where liver stagnation is directly caused by emotional distress.
When liver and kidney yin deficiency type of liver qi stagnation occurs, soothing the liver with Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) may be considered. However, for cases involving liver qi transforming into fire or severe qi stagnation, its use is not recommended. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a physician beforehand. Detailed explanation is as follows:
For patients with long-term emotional depression accompanied by symptoms such as soreness and weakness in the lower back and knees, tinnitus, and night sweats caused by liver-kidney yin deficiency, Cornus officinalis can indirectly alleviate impaired liver function due to insufficient nourishment by nourishing liver yin and replenishing kidney essence. Combined with other liver-soothing herbs such as white peony root (Baishao) and Lycium barbarum (Gouqi), it can help relieve symptoms such as dull pain in the hypochondrium and insomnia due to deficiency irritability.
If liver qi stagnation is directly triggered by emotional distress, presenting with symptoms of excessive internal heat such as bitter taste in the mouth, dry throat, distending pain in the chest and hypochondrium, red tongue, or yellow coating on the tongue, the greasy nature of Cornus officinalis may exacerbate internal heat, while its sour and astringent properties may further impede the smooth flow of liver qi. Improper use in such cases may lead to worsening insomnia, acne breakouts, or increased menstrual blood clots—manifestations of qi stagnation and blood stasis.
Therefore, it is essential to undergo TCM syndrome differentiation before consumption to determine body constitution type. Additionally, Cornus officinalis should not be consumed with spicy or heat-inducing foods. If skin rashes or indigestion occur, use should be discontinued immediately.
