Can infants eat cornus fruit (Cornus officinalis)?

Apr 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, infants should not consume Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu). While Cornus officinalis has the effect of nourishing the liver and kidneys, it has a mild medicinal property and contains certain toxic components. Infants' liver and kidney functions are not yet fully developed, and their ability to metabolize and excrete medications is limited, making them more susceptible to drug toxicity. Administering Cornus officinalis to infants without guidance from a qualified physician may cause adverse reactions.

Generally speaking, infants should not consume Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu). The detailed explanation is as follows:

Cornus officinalis has the effect of nourishing the liver and kidneys. However, although its medicinal properties are mild, it contains certain toxic components. Infants' liver and kidney functions are not yet fully developed, and their ability to metabolize and excrete medications is limited, making them more susceptible to drug toxicity. Additionally, infants' bodily functions and immune systems are relatively fragile, and their responses to external stimuli and medications may be more sensitive. Administering Cornus officinalis to infants without professional medical guidance may cause adverse reactions or allergic reactions.

As infants grow older and enter the complementary feeding stage, under the premise of ensuring the infant does not have allergies to Cornus officinalis or related ingredients, it may be added in small amounts as an ingredient to complementary foods. However, this should be done under a doctor's guidance, following the principle of starting with small quantities and gradually increasing the amount, while closely observing the infant's response.

In daily care, infants' diets should primarily consist of breast milk or formula milk. If additional nutrition is required, complementary foods specifically designed for infants should be selected. The introduction of new foods should be gradual, starting with single ingredients and progressing to a variety, to ensure the infant's healthy growth.