Jujube - Best Herb for Many Health Problems

Zizyphus jujuba (l. vulgaris) Rhamnaceae Also called Chinese date

This small tree grows to a height of 6-8m and is common throughout the Mediterranean region. The bark on its trunk is brown and covered itl small cracks and its branches are thorny. jujube leaves are oval and fluted and its flowers are yellowish green and grow in small clusters. Its fruit, the jujube, is a berry that contains a single seed.

Parts used

Constituents

The flesh of the berry is rich in mucilages, which have soothing properties. It also contains flavonoids, saponins (such as zizyphus saponins I, II and III), and vitamins A, Band C.

Medicinal uses

Jujube is one of the four 'pectoral' fruits that are especially good for chest ailments (the other three being dates, figs and raisins). In traditional Chinese medicine jujube is used to rebuild strength and stamina when the body is in a weakened state such as during convalescence or chronic fatigue syndrome. It has been shownto possess several pharmacological properties: it acts against bacteria, inflammation, fevers and diabetes.

Jujube is believed to modify theimmune response and reduce allergic reactions. In 1997, for example, Japanese scientists showed that triterpene oligoglycosides isolated from jujube prevented the release of the inflammatory mediator histamine in vitro.Jujuba also has a sedative effect and can help with insomnia.

In 2002 Chinese scientists found that the glycoside jujuboside inhibited the stimulation of the hippocampus in the brain, which may account for jujube's sedative effects.

Taken orally, the jujube fruit is used to relieve hoarseness, voice loss, inflammatory throat infections, coughs and bronchitis.Its astringent, binding action makes it an effective remedy for diarrhoea, taken on its own or with other soothing plants such as carob and marshmallow. It can also reduce perspiration including night sweats.

Cultivation

Plant in well-drained, moist or dry soil in a sunny spot. Protect from hard frosts. Jujube can be grown from seed, suckers or cuttings.

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE

For internal use

TO TREAT voice loss, sore throat, cough, bronchitis, diarrhoea
DECOCTION Put 30-50g of ground fruit into 1 litre of water. Boil for 30 minutes and strain. Drink as required. PASTILLES Take as directed for chest ailments or to soothe a sore throat.

CAUTIONS

No harmful side effects have been associated with the consumption of jujube berries.

However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take jujube as a herbal medicine.