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

Generally, patients with yin deficiency and damp-heat are advised to consume cornus fruit (Shanzhuyu). A detailed analysis is as follows:

Cornus fruit can nourish the liver and kidneys, reduce seminal emission, prevent prolapse, and stop perspiration. It is primarily used to treat symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and soreness and weakness of the waist and knees caused by liver and kidney insufficiency. However, patients with yin deficiency complicated by damp-heat have pathogenic damp-heat in their bodies. After taking cornus fruit, its astringent effect might hinder the elimination of damp-heat pathogens, potentially leading to increased internal accumulation of dampness and heat, thereby exacerbating symptoms such as more pronounced yellow and greasy tongue coating, body heaviness, and sticky, unsatisfactory bowel movements.

Cornus fruit has a slightly warm nature. Yin deficiency itself tends to generate internal heat, and damp-heat also belongs to the category of heat pathogens. The warm nature of cornus fruit may further intensify internal heat, making the symptoms of yin deficiency fire hyperactivity and damp-heat more pronounced. Patients with yin deficiency and damp-heat should consult a professional TCM practitioner before consuming cornus fruit and receive syndrome differentiation-based treatment according to their individual constitution and condition.

In daily diet, one should maintain light meals, avoid spicy and greasy foods, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, and maintain good lifestyle habits to promote overall health.