Shan Zhu Yu – Cornelian Cherry Fruit – Fructus Corni

Shan Zhu Yu, also known as Corni Fructus or Cornelian Cherry Fruit, is a sour and slightly warm herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to tonify the Liver and Kidneys, stabilize Essence, and stop excessive leakage of fluids. It is commonly used in cases of spontaneous sweating, seminal emission, urinary incontinence, and excessive menstrual bleeding due to deficiency. Shan Zhu Yu is both a tonic and an astringent, making it especially useful in deficiency patterns with leakage or collapse.
Functions & Benefits
Tonifies the Liver and KidneysShan Zhu Yu nourishes and strengthens the Liver and Kidney systems, making it effective for symptoms such as dizziness, low back pain, tinnitus, and weak knees due to Liver and Kidney Deficiency. It supports core vitality and is often used in aging-related weakness or reproductive disorders.
Stabilizes Essence and Prevents LeakageThis herb is particularly effective in stopping the leakage of Essence, such as nocturnal emissions, premature ejaculation, frequent urination, or vaginal discharge. It also treats spontaneous or night sweating caused by collapse of the Yang or deficiency of Yin.
Stops Excessive Sweating and Stabilizes the ExteriorShan Zhu Yu is used to stabilize the exterior and stop sweating in cases of Qi Collapse or after a long illness when there is sweating without the ability to contain fluids. It helps support the holding function of the Spleen and Kidneys.
Assists Menstrual and Uterine FunctionThis herb can be used in gynecological formulas to stabilize irregular, prolonged, or excessive menstrual bleeding due to Deficiency. It helps prevent fluid loss and supports blood regulation in the lower jiao.
Indications
Dizziness, tinnitus, weak lower back or knees from Kidney DeficiencyFrequent urination, spermatorrhea, or vaginal discharge due to Essence leakageSpontaneous sweating or night sweats from deficiency or Qi CollapseProlonged or irregular menstruation due to deficiency of Liver or KidneyRecovery from chronic illness with loss of fluids and core energy
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCM
Tongue: Pale or red with thin coating, depending on Yin or Yang DeficiencyPulse: Thin and weak or slightly rapid, sometimes deep in Kidney Deficiency patterns
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Shan Zhu Yu
Shan Zhu Yu treats Kidney and Liver Deficiency, Collapse of Qi with sweating, Instability of Essence, and Deficiency-type bleeding. These patterns present with symptoms such as fluid leakage, reproductive weakness, fatigue, or premature aging.
Precautions & Contraindications
Not suitable for excess heat, damp-heat, or stagnation patternsAvoid in cases of urinary difficulty caused by excess or heatUse cautiously in early stages of acute febrile illnessMay exacerbate retention in obstructive urinary disorders
Conclusion
Shan Zhu Yu is a key herb for tonifying the Liver and Kidneys while preventing leakage of Essence and fluids. It is especially useful in chronic deficiency patterns with symptoms such as urinary frequency, sweating, reproductive leakage, and lower back weakness. Its stabilizing and warming properties make it ideal for aging patients and those recovering from long-term illness or collapse of energy.