Can patients with uterine fibroids take Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu)?

Apr 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

When the condition of a patient with uterine fibroids is relatively stable and there are no obvious heat-related symptoms such as dry mouth, irritability, or anger, moderate consumption of Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) may be beneficial to health. Cornus officinalis has functions of nourishing the liver and kidneys and consolidating vital essence, which can help improve symptoms such as physical weakness, fatigue, or soreness and weakness of the waist and knees caused by insufficient liver and kidney function.

Uterine fibroid patients can usually follow medical advice to consume a moderate amount of cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) if their condition is stable. However, it is not recommended when the condition is complicated or if there is internal damp-heat or blood stasis. If in doubt, it is advisable to seek medical consultation in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:

When the condition of uterine fibroids is relatively stable and there are no obvious heat-related symptoms such as dry mouth, irritability, or anger, moderate consumption of cornus officinalis may be beneficial to the body. Cornus officinalis has the function of nourishing the liver and kidneys and consolidating vital essence, which may help improve symptoms such as physical weakness, fatigue, and soreness in the waist and knees caused by insufficiency of the liver and kidneys.

If patients with uterine fibroids have symptoms of damp-heat or blood stasis, then cornus officinalis should not be consumed. Cornus officinalis is rich in texture and may easily exacerbate damp-heat conditions, worsening symptoms such as abnormal vaginal discharge, abdominal distension, or thick greasy tongue coating. Additionally, uterine fibroids are closely related to hormonal levels and blood circulation. The astringent properties of cornus officinalis may hinder the circulation of qi and blood, and could even indirectly affect the progression of the disease.

If patients experience allergic reactions to cornus officinalis, such as rashes or itching, consumption should be stopped immediately and medical attention should be sought promptly.

View All

Can I eat cornus fruit (Shanzhuyu) if I have inflammation?

In general, if there is inflammation that is determined to be a deficiency pattern (deficient immune response),山茱萸 (Cornus officinalis) may be taken as directed by a physician. However, it is not recommended for cases of excess-pattern inflammation or severe damp-heat conditions. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is advised. Before consuming Cornus officinalis, the type of inflammation should be clearly identified, and its suitability should be assessed according to one's individual constitution. Special populations should use it only under the guidance of a physician to ensure dietary safety.

View Full Answer

Are Cornus officinalis berries safe for minors to consume?

If the minor is an older child presenting with symptoms of liver and kidney deficiency such as dizziness, tinnitus, and soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, he or she may, under the guidance of a TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) physician, take a proper amount of Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) to nourish the liver and kidneys. When taking Cornus officinalis, strictly follow the dosage recommendations provided by the physician and closely monitor the minor's physical response. Some minors with weak constitutions and the aforementioned symptoms may benefit from this treatment.

View Full Answer

Can patients with Yin deficiency and damp-heat syndrome consume Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu)?

Under normal circumstances, patients with yin deficiency and damp-heat are advised to take Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu). Cornus officinalis can nourish the liver and kidneys, consolidate essence to prevent its loss, and relieve sweating. It is primarily used to treat symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and soreness and weakness of the waist and knees caused by deficiency of the liver and kidneys. However, for patients with yin deficiency and damp-heat, there is an internal accumulation of damp-heat pathogens. After taking Cornus officinalis, its astringent effect may hinder the elimination of damp-heat pathogens, potentially leading to a worsening of internal damp-heat retention.

View Full Answer

Is it okay to take Cornus officinalis powder?

Under normal circumstances, it is acceptable to consume Cornus officinalis (Chinese cornel) in powdered form. Cornus officinalis consists of the dried ripe pulp of the fruit from the plant Cornus officinalis, and it possesses certain medicinal values. It can be consumed in various ways, including direct consumption, steeping in water for drinking, and grinding into powder. Taking Cornus officinalis in powdered form is a common and effective method of administration, particularly suitable for long-term regulation and conditioning.