Shan Zhu Yu | Fructus Corni | Dogwood Fruit
Properties: sour, slightly warm
channels: kidney, liver
Key functions: stabilizes the kidneys and astringes Jing and body fluids; stops excessive sweating; tonifies liver and kidney yin; strengthens kidney yang; stabilizes menses.
Shan Zhu Yu is a small red berry that looks similar to a mini cherry. It is found in our Meno-Wash formula specifically for supporting the kidney and liver yin. Studies have shown that Shan Zhu Yu is effective against symptoms associated with menopause. The active constituents found in Shan Zhu Yu include iridoids -morroniside and loganin, anthocyanins, tannins, triterpenoids, flavonoids, and several others.
These biochemical components found in Shan Zhu Yu’s give the pharmacological effects of having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective activities. One key effect that is beneficial for menopausal women is Shan Zhu Yu’s ability to work with the hormonal fluctuations during menopause by supporting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and overall ovarian function.
Shan Zhu Yu’s effects on the Kidney and Liver yin, can be loosely translated into biomedical terms through the symptoms of hot flashes and vaginal dryness. The shifts in the hormonal cycling as a woman experiences menopause are directly influenced by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which this herb has been studied for its positive effects. In TCM the kidney and liver systems are related to the menstrual cycle through the relationship of the endocrine system. Using this herb internally and externally can be a great ally for women through their menopausal years.
The specific constituents of iridoids and flavonoids, give this herb the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant function that helps to reduce menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue. These functions can be accessed through the internal use of this herb - in formulas such as Liu Wei Di Huang Wan or Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan. Both these internal formulas have Shan Zhu Yu in them and can work holistically with the topical use of Meno-Wash.
Within our Meno-Wash formula, Shan Zhu Yu acts as an astringent, in synergy with the other herbs in the wash, to combat the common symptoms of vaginal dryness and skin thinning. The active compounds in Shan Zhu Yu can enhance skin elasticity and hydration while reducing oxidative stress. This supports the skin and helps alleviate dryness and thinning often experienced during menopause.
Study Resources:
Dong, Y., Feng, Z.-L., Chen, H.-B., Wang, F.-S., & Lu, J.-H. (2018). Corni Fructus: a review of chemical constituents and pharmacological activities. Chinese Medicine, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13020-018-0191-z
Gao, X., Liu, Y., An, Z., & Ni, J. (2021). Active Components and Pharmacological Effects of Cornus officinalis: Literature Review. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2021.633447
Shin, D., Koh, M. S., Lee, S., Lee, D. H., Kang, G.-H., Kim, S., Jang, D. S., Hwang, D.-S., Kim, Y.-S., & Bae, H. (2018). Corni fructus ameliorates menopause symptom in 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide. Molecular & Cellular Toxicology, 14(1), 35–42. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13273-018-0005-5
Wang, Y., Wu, J.-Z., Li, Y., & Qi, X. (2019). Polysaccharides of Fructus corni Improve Ovarian Function in Mice with Aging-Associated Perimenopause Symptoms. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2019, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1155/2019/2089586