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

Apr 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Introduction

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.

Generally speaking, if there is inflammation but it belongs to a deficiency (xu) type,山茱萸 (Cornus officinalis) may be consumed under medical advice. However, it is not recommended for individuals with excess (shi) type inflammation or severe damp-heat conditions. If any abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is advised. Detailed analysis is as follows:

When the inflammation presents as chronic deficiency (xu) type caused by liver and kidney insufficiency or deficiency of qi and blood,山茱萸 possesses effects of nourishing the liver and kidneys and astringing to relieve symptoms. It may help improve inflammation caused by physical weakness, such as mild chronic pharyngitis or discomfort of the urinary system. In this case, it should be consumed in moderation and combined with other herbs to enhance effectiveness.

If the inflammation belongs to the damp-heat excess (shi) type, such as acute infections, redness, swelling, heat, pain, or gastrointestinal damp-heat conditions, the nourishing properties of山茱萸 may be unsuitable and could potentially worsen damp-heat symptoms. Additionally,山茱萸 has a sour and astringent nature, and excessive consumption may lead to indigestion or gastrointestinal discomfort, especially in individuals with weak spleen and stomach functions, who should use it cautiously or avoid it altogether.

Before consuming山茱萸, it is important to identify the type of inflammation and determine its suitability based on one's own constitution. Special populations should use it under the guidance of a physician to ensure dietary safety.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Can I eat cornus fruit (Cornus officinalis) for a bitter taste in the mouth?

Whether bitter taste in the mouth can be treated with Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) depends on the specific cause of the bitterness. If the bitter taste is caused by liver blood deficiency, it can generally be taken under the guidance of a physician. However, if it is caused by other factors, taking Cornus officinalis is not recommended. It is advisable to consult a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner before using Cornus officinalis, to avoid self-medication and ensure its effectiveness and safety.