Cornus officinalis - Medicinal Herbs,Shrub - Asiatic Dogwood, Japanese Cornel Dogwood Page

Cornus officinalis, also known as Japanese cornel or Japanese cornelian cherry, is a species of dogwood that is native to China, Japan, and Korea. It is a highly valued plant used both as a food source and in traditional medicine. The fruit of Cornus officinalis, known as zhu yu or sansuyu, is rich in essential minerals such as potassium, calcium, sodium, iron, zinc, manganese, and copper. Compared to other fruit juices, Cornelian cherry juice has higher levels of dietary minerals.

Apart from its nutritional benefits, Cornus officinalis has also been found to have medicinal properties. It contains compounds like oleanolic acid and ursolic acid, which have demonstrated protective effects on auditory cells and potential hepatic injury prevention. It also exhibits protective effects on beta cells and may control postprandial hyperglycemia. Additionally, Cornel iridoid glycoside extracted from Cornus officinalis has shown promise in promoting neurogenesis and angiogenesis, improving neurological function after ischemia.

In terms of appearance, Cornus officinalis is an incredibly ornamental plant. It closely resembles the Cornus mas species but has more colorful exfoliating bark in shades of grays, browns, and oranges. The flower display of Cornus officinalis is also more impressive, with flowers blooming in early spring. The edible fruits add to the overall appeal of this tree.

Overall, Cornus officinalis is a versatile and attractive plant that not only provides aesthetic value but also offers various health benefits as a food and medicinal plant. Its rich mineral content, coupled with its medicinal properties, make it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.