Cornus Fruit

산수유 (山茱萸) · Cornus officinalis Siebold & Zucc.

Kidney tonic (astringent) Slightly warm Sour, astringent Liver, Kidney

NatureSlightly warm

TasteSour, astringent

MeridiansLiver, Kidney

Part usedRipe fruit (pit removed)

FamilyCornaceae

CategoryKidney tonic (astringent)

Find by concern: Frequent urination Dizziness Fatigue

Overview

Cornus fruit is a foundational kidney-nourishing herb in Korean tradition, valued for strengthening what the classics call the lower back and knees. The Donguibogam notes its flesh tonifies while its seed has the opposite, dispersing effect — so the pit is always removed before use.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑

性微溫, 味酸澁, 無毒. 强陰益精, 補腎氣.

Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)

TranslationIts nature is slightly warm, its taste sour and astringent, and it is non-toxic. It strengthens yin and boosts essence, and tonifies kidney qi.

Traditional functions

Tonifies the liver and kidney
Astringes essence, reduces excess discharge
Strengthens the lower back and knees
Reduces frequent urination

Traditional applications

Frequent urination, especially in older adults
Lower back and knee weakness
Dizziness from kidney-essence deficiency
General fatigue with aging

Traditional preparation

Decoction 6–12g, pit removed; a core ingredient of Yukmi-jihwang-hwan (Six-Flavor Rehmannia Pill).

Cautions

Caution: Traditionally avoided in damp-heat patterns or when urination is already difficult, since its astringent action may worsen retention. Consult a professional before use.

Frequently asked questions

Why must the pit be removed?

The Donguibogam distinguishes the two parts sharply: the flesh tonifies and secures essence, while the seed has a dispersing, leaking effect — the opposite of what the herb is used for — so classical processing always discards the pit.

Why is it paired with rehmannia in Yukmi-jihwang-hwan?

This six-herb formula is the classic prescription for kidney-yin deficiency; cornus fruit's astringent, essence-securing action complements rehmannia's richer nourishing role.

Sources

동의보감 탕액편 (원문) — 한문 원문 발췌 — 한의학고전DB 탕액편 대조 검증 완료 (DATA-001)
한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 국역 참조 후 자체 재서술 (LEGAL-001)

DonguiHub is an educational and informational platform about the history and tradition of Korean medicine. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about health conditions and before using any herb.