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More
Information:
Other
Common Names
Cornus
Page
Number In Radiant Health
205
Pharmaceutical
Latin
Fructus Corni Officinalis
Pinyin
Shan Yu Rou or Shan Zhu Yu
Treasures
Yin Jing
Treasure
Rating
***1/2
Atmospheric
Energy
Warm
Organ
Meridian Systems
Kidney and Liver
Part
Used and Form
Pulp of the ripe fruit. The fruit has been prepared by
baking over a slow fire or scalding with boiling water,
then, after removal of the stone, drying in the sun.
Primary
Functions
To stabilize the Kidney and to contain Jing. Astringent,
preventing or arresting excessive loss of body fluid.
Nourishing the Kidney and Liver.
Qualities
Cornus is a mild Yin tonic which acts upon the Kidney,
most specifically upon the uro-genital system. Its tonic
action is highly magnified by its powerful astringent
action. When combined with other tonic herbs, Cornus
becomes a powerhouse, and makes the other herbs much
more powerful as well. Being a warm Yin tonic makes it a
somewhat unique herb. It's great power does not lie in
the actual amount of Yin provided by the Cornus
itself---it lies in Cornus's incredible astringent
action on the uro-genital organs.
Cornus is very sour, and like all sour herbs, it helps
control ejaculation of sperm and helps treat the
problems of impotence, premature ejaculation, and
frequent urination due to weak bladder. Because of its
warm nature and because of its direct action on the
genital function, many Asian herbalists consider Cornus
to have "aphrodisiac" qualities. Like all true
Kidney tonics, Cornus helps strengthen the back and
knees, clears the mind, improves hearing. Cornus is well
known for its benefits for people experiencing
dizziness. Those who are deficient in Yin Jing can
combine Cornus with Yin herbs. Those who are deficient
in Yang Jing can combine Cornus with Yang herbs. In
either case, Cornus will strengthen Jing by conserving
it.
A quinol glucoside has been isolated which acts as a
urinary antiseptic. Extracts have shown antibacterial
activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella
typhula and Shigella dysentarae. Extracts have also
shown anti-allergenic effects. Cornus will help reduce
perspiration in those who sweat due to illness, weakness
or fear. Mixed with the appropriate herbs, Cornus is
very useful for stabilizing excessive or prolonged
menstrual bleeding due to deficiency and weakness.
Primary
Combinations
Combine with:
1. Rehmannia (steamed), Cuscuta, Lycium and Eucommia
bark to tonify the Liver and Kidneys, to strengthen the
lower back and legs, to strengthen sexual functions and
to prevent premature ejaculation in men
2. Ginseng, Prepared Aconite and Oyster shell to prevent
sweating due to weakness of the body
Varieties
and Grading
The fresher the better. The more sour the better.
Contraindications
Cornus is an extremely safe herb with no known side
effects. However, it should be not be used by people who
have difficulty urinating or who become hot but cannot
sweat.
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This
sour fruit plays an important role in many Essence
tonics. It is said to be "astringent," thereby
locking energy into the system and preventing the energy
from 'leaking" out. In its own right it is a
powerful Yin essence tonic with a warm energy. When
combined with other tonic herbs, Cornus becomes a
powerhouse, and makes the other herbs much more powerful
as well. Cornus is considered to be an aphrodisiac.