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