Jujube – Chinese date (Hong Zao)

Indications for dried jujube in Chinese medicine

Because it tones the spleen and stomach (i.e., the digestive system) and increases energy, jujube is indicated for :

• Fatigue or when you tire easily
• Shortness of breath
• Frequent sighing
• Loss of appetite
• Loose stools due to digestive problems
• Chronic atrophic gastritis
• Peptic ulcer disease

Its toning action on the blood and calming effect on the central nervous system soothes emotional disorders:

• Depressive mood
• Nervousness
• Hypersensitivity
• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Lassitude

As well as containing vitamins A, B2 and C, jujube also contains betulinic and maslinic acid, making it beneficial for skin and other cancers by inhibiting the multiplication of cancer cells.

Instructions for use and dosage

 
Infusion:
Place 3 or 4 dried jujubes in a large mug and fill to 90% with spring water or simmering filtered water (approx. 250ml). Cover the mug and leave to infuse for 15 minutes. Eat the jujubes.

Decoction:
Make incisions on the jujubes, then place 3 to 12 jujubes (10 to 30g) in a glass, stainless steel or earthenware container. Pour in spring or filtered water until the jujubes are covered. Heat over high heat until boiling, then simmer for 15-20 minutes. Drink the liquid and eat the jujubes.
You can also drink the liquid and save the jujubes in a bowl for later.

Congee:
Put 3 or 4 jujubes in a rice or millet porridge (100g).

Combinations:

– Jujube can be combined with Dang Shen for whole-body fatigue and loss of appetite after illness.

Contraindication :

– Contraindicated for people with high hypotension, diabetics and those with mycosis/candidosis.
– Avoid for people with tooth decay, poor digestion, and a tendency to indigestion and flatulence.
– Do not consume if you have a serious illness and/or are undergoing heavy medical treatment.