Can I take Cornus officinalis for a cold or flu?

Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) is usually recommended for common colds caused by kidney deficiency. However, it is generally not suitable for treating wind-cold感冒. If any discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek prompt medical attention at a hospital and follow the instructions of a physician.

Cornus officinalis has functions of warming and nourishing the liver and kidneys, consolidating essence, reducing urination, controlling leukorrhea, and relieving sweating. For common colds caused by kidney deficiency, which manifest as symptoms such as chills, cold intolerance, soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, appropriate use of Cornus officinalis may help alleviate symptoms and enhance physical strength.

Wind-cold感冒 is a common type of cold in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), with symptoms primarily including severe chills, mild fever, absence of sweating, headache, body aches, nasal congestion, and clear nasal discharge. In treating wind-cold感冒, TCM typically employs methods to dispel wind-cold, thus expelling pathogenic factors from the body. However, Cornus officinalis has an astringent and consolidating effect, which may interfere with the sweating and exterior-resolving process necessary for treating wind-cold感冒, potentially causing pathogenic factors to remain in the body and delaying recovery. Therefore, patients with wind-cold感冒 should avoid using Cornus officinalis.

During a cold, patients should also keep warm, rest adequately, and avoid consuming raw, cold, greasy, spicy, or other irritating foods.