Botanical Overview
Ziziphus jujuba is a species in the Rhamnaceae family. The seed, known as Semen Ziziphi Spinosae or Suan zao ren in traditional Chinese medicine, is the primary part used medicinally. Commonly called jujube seed or Chinese jujube seed, it is harvested mostly in East Asia, particularly China.
Parts used: Seed
Common names: Jujube seed, Semen Ziziphi Spinosae, Suan zao ren, Chinese jujube seed
Energetics
Temperature: neutral
Moisture: moistening
Tastes: bitter, sweet
Tonicity: relaxing
Qi/blood/fluid: shen
Primary Actions
- Anxiolytic
- Sedative
- Nervine
Indications
Western
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
Syndromes
TCM
- Insomnia
- Palpitations
- Night sweating
- Anxiety
- Restlessness
Syndromes
- Heart Yin deficiency
- Liver Blood deficiency
- Shen disturbance
Ayurveda
Syndromes
Unani
Syndromes
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include saponins, flavonoids, fatty acids, alkaloids, and polysaccharides contributing to its sedative and anxiolytic effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction: 6-12 g daily
- Powder: 3-9 g daily
- Tincture (1:5, 40%): 2-5 mL, 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe with proper use; may cause drowsiness and should be used cautiously with other sedatives. Limited data on safety in pregnancy; caution advised.
Astrological Correspondences
Not established
Selected References
- Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China (2020)
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, 3rd Edition – Bensky et al. (2004)
- Phytochemical and pharmacological studies of Semen Ziziphi Spinosae, Liu et al. (2000)
- WebMD: Jujube Seed (Suan Zao Ren) Uses and Warnings