Does Ziziphi Spinosae Semen (Suan Zao Ren) treat tinnitus?
Disease description:
I’ve taken many medications, but none have worked—my tinnitus persists constantly, and I can’t even sleep well. I heard jujube seed (Suan Zao Ren) might help. Can jujube seed treat tinnitus?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
Tinnitus is generally incurable, but certain treatments may provide supportive benefits. Patients should visit a reputable otolaryngology clinic to determine the underlying cause of their tinnitus. If diagnosed as neural (sensorineural) tinnitus, comprehensive treatment—including vasodilators, neurotrophic agents, and acupuncture—may be recommended. In such cases, appropriate administration of *Ziziphi Spinosae Semen* (Suan Zao Ren) may offer some supportive benefit. However, if tinnitus results from other causes—such as otitis media or foreign bodies in the external auditory canal—*Ziziphi Spinosae Semen* will be ineffective.
