Medicinal Effects of Cornus Fruit

According to Donguibogam (a classic Korean medical text), Cornus fruit strengthens vitality, fortifies the bones, warms the lower back and knees, and helps relieve frequent urination. It is also said to nourish the kidneys, restore energy, and promote overall vitality.

Cornus fruit has long been regarded as a “fruit eaten by immortals” and has traditionally been used in Oriental medicine. After removing the seeds, the fruit is steamed and sun-dried before use. Cornus fruit is believed to strengthen the liver and kidneys, replenish vital energy and blood, lower blood pressure, and reduce inflammation. Dried Cornus fruit can be consumed as tea or infused into alcohol for its health benefits.

Health Benefits of Cornus Fruit

1. Immune System Support

Cornus fruit contains a high concentration of organic acids that help eliminate waste products and toxins from the body, supporting antibacterial activity and enhancing immunity.

It also helps lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for managing diabetes. Cornus fruit supports immune function in people who experience cold sweats, cold hands and feet, or weakened immunity related to lifestyle diseases. In addition, its extracts support immune B cells, helping to alleviate allergic symptoms and relieve lower back or knee discomfort.

2. Liver and Kidney Function Improvement

Cornus fruit contains compounds that activate liver cells and enhance liver function. One of its components, cornutin, stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and helps strengthen kidney function. With its warming nature, Cornus fruit protects the liver and kidneys while increasing muscle contraction strength, helping the body remain firm and balanced.

3. Vascular Health

Rich in potassium, Cornus fruit helps remove excess sodium and waste from the bloodstream. This supports healthier blood vessels and helps lower blood pressure, making it beneficial for managing hypertension and cardiovascular health.

4. Menstrual Regulation

Cornus fruit is known to help relieve menstrual irregularities, heavy menstrual bleeding, and severe menstrual cramps. When consumed as juice or tea, it may help improve symptoms associated with menstrual disorders.

5. Urinary Incontinence Relief

As women age, reduced physical activity and calcium loss can weaken pelvic muscles, increasing the risk of urinary incontinence. The naturally sour compounds in Cornus fruit enhance muscle contraction and improve bladder control, helping to alleviate symptoms of urinary incontinence and nocturnal enuresis.

6. Brain and Eye Health

Cornus fruit promotes blood circulation to the brain, supporting brain cell activity. It helps calm the mind, improve concentration, and manage forgetfulness.

It also contains vitamin A, which helps reduce eye fatigue, protect vision, and support night vision. It is especially beneficial for individuals who experience blurred vision or frequent eye strain.

7. Energy and Vitality Restoration

Cornus fruit contains tannins, cornin, and saponins, which are known to help restore vitality. Donguibogam records that Cornus fruit “strengthens yin energy, nourishes the kidneys, restores vitality, and revitalizes the body.”

8. Skin Health and Beauty

Cornus fruit is rich in compounds such as cornin, morroniside, loganin, tannins, saponins, and organic acids, all of which support skin health. Its high vitamin A content helps protect the skin from damage and promotes a smooth, healthy complexion.

9. Side Effects and Precautions

The seeds inside Cornus fruit are toxic and must be removed before use. Because Cornus fruit has a warming nature, individuals with excessive body heat should consume it with caution.

Cornus fruit should not be consumed together with balloon flower root (doraji), as they are considered incompatible. In some individuals, allergic reactions such as nausea or dizziness may occur, so caution is advised when consuming it for the first time.