Botanical Overview
Ziziphus spina-christi (Rhamnaceae) is commonly known as Christ’s Thorn Jujube, Nabq, Jerusalem Thorn, and Sidr. The plant is native to North Africa, the Middle East, the Horn of Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. Commonly used parts include the bark, fruit, leaf, and root.
Energetics
Ziziphus spina-christi is characterized by cooling temperature and moistening moisture qualities. It has a bitter and sweet taste profile, with relaxing tonicity and a focus on nourishing bodily fluids (fluid). Specific directionality is undefined.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Astringent
- Demulcent
- Immunomodulatory
- Wound healing
Indications
Western
- Inflammation
- Diarrhea
- Skin wounds
- Respiratory infections
- Ulcers
Syndromes
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Respiratory tract infections
- Wound healing
TCM
No traditional Chinese medicine indications found.
Ayurveda
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Skin diseases
- Inflammation
Syndromes
- Pitta disorders
- Skin afflictions
Unani
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Sore throat
- Ulcers
- Skin infections
Syndromes
- Heat-related digestive disorders
- Ulcerative conditions
- Inflammatory states
Constituents & Mechanisms
Contains flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, triterpenes, and phenolic acids known for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of leaves: 10-20 grams per day
- Fruit infusion: 5-10 grams dried fruit per day
- Topical paste from leaf or bark for wound healing
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe in traditional doses; caution in pregnancy due to limited safety data. No major drug interactions reported but use cautiously with severe gastrointestinal conditions.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future: Ziziphus spina-christi (Christ’s Thorn Jujube)
- Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2020: Ethnomedicinal uses and pharmacological properties of Ziziphus spina-christi
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, 1999
- The Unani Pharmacopoeia of India, 2007