The Efficacy, Functions, and Contraindications of Cornus officinalis

Sep 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I have often felt soreness and pain in my lower back, which cannot be relieved for half a day, making me very uncomfortable. I wanted to use a medicated plaster, but my friend told me that Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) works well. Therefore, what are the functions, benefits, and禁忌 (contraindications) of Cornus officinalis?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong

Chinese cornel (Cornus officinalis), is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with the following functions and effects:

1. Tonify the kidney and consolidate essence: Chinese cornel can nourish kidney qi and effectively improve symptoms such as soreness and weakness of the waist and knees, spermatorrhea, and premature ejaculation caused by kidney deficiency.

2. Astringe and solidify: The tannins and polysaccharides contained in Chinese cornel have an astringent effect, making it suitable for conditions such as physical weakness with impending collapse and continuous profuse sweating.

3. Warm the middle jiao and stop diarrhea: Chinese cornel can also warm the spleen and stomach, providing some relief for diarrhea caused by spleen and stomach cold deficiency.

4. Lower blood sugar: Chinese cornel extract has hypoglycemic effects and is suitable for individuals with elevated blood glucose levels.

Contraindications of Chinese cornel:

1. Use with caution in patients with heat syndromes: Due to its warm nature, Chinese cornel should be avoided in individuals with internal heat to prevent exacerbation of their condition.

2. Use with caution in pregnant women: Chinese cornel has certain blood-activating properties, and its use during pregnancy may adversely affect the fetus. Therefore, it should either be avoided during pregnancy or used cautiously under a physician's guidance.

3. Individuals with allergic constitutions: People allergic to Chinese cornel or its components should avoid its use to prevent allergic reactions.