How long should Cornus officinalis be boiled to remove the seed?

     Fresh Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) typically requires boiling for 5-15 minutes to loosen the pit, while dried Cornus officinalis used in herbal medicine may require 60 minutes or more, depending on specific conditions.

     If the Cornus officinalis is fresh or relatively moist and the flesh is not tightly attached to the pit, boiling in water for 5-15 minutes may cause the flesh to loosen, making manual pitting easier. For dried Cornus officinalis, a longer time may be required to soften the flesh. In this case, place the fruit in a stewing pot, add sufficient water, and simmer over low heat for at least 60 minutes until the flesh becomes very soft, at which point the pit should be easier to remove.

     When boiling Cornus officinalis, ensure the heat is moderate to avoid excessive heat causing the fruit to rupture or insufficient heat affecting the cooking effectiveness. Adjust the cooking time flexibly based on actual conditions to achieve optimal pitting results. After boiling, promptly remove and cool the fruit to prevent overcooking, which may affect its quality. Cornus officinalis has various therapeutic effects, such as nourishing the liver and kidneys and astringent properties. It is recommended to use it under the guidance of a physician.

     In daily life, while taking the medication, maintain a balanced diet and avoid consuming spicy and irritating foods such as hot pot and chili peppers, which may interfere with the medication's effectiveness.