Can a one-year-old baby drink Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu)?

Apr 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, one-year-old infants should not consume Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu). Cornus officinalis has a mild medicinal property and also possesses certain toxicity, so it must be used with caution, especially in children. A one-year-old infant's digestive and immune systems are not yet fully developed, and there is significant individual variation in their tolerance and response to traditional Chinese medicine, making them more susceptible to allergic reactions or other adverse effects.

Generally speaking, one-year-old babies should not consume Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu). The detailed explanation is as follows:

Cornus officinalis has various functions, including nourishing the liver and kidneys, reducing seminal discharge, preventing exhaustion, and stopping perspiration. However, it has a mildly warm medicinal property and contains certain toxicity, thus requiring cautious use. A one-year-old baby's digestive and immune systems are not yet fully developed, and there are significant individual differences in their tolerance and response to traditional Chinese medicines. This may easily lead to allergic reactions or other adverse effects.

If a baby suffers from health problems, parents should consult a professional physician or traditional Chinese medicine practitioner instead of deciding independently to administer any herbal medicine to the baby, in order to ensure the baby's health and safety. If the baby has already taken Cornus officinalis, parents should closely monitor the baby's physical reactions, and discontinue the medication immediately and seek medical attention if symptoms such as rashes or diarrhea occur.

In daily life, parents should ensure the baby receives sufficient nutrients such as proteins and fruits and vegetables to meet the needs of their growth and development.