More Information:
Other Common
Names
Red Date
Page Number In Ancient Wisdom of the Chinese Tonic Herbs
212
Pharmaceutical Latin
Fructus Jujube
Pinyin
Hong Zao
Treasures
Qi and Spirit
Treasure Rating
***1/2
Atmospheric Energy
Neutral
Organ Meridian Systems
Spleen and Stomach
Part
Used and Form
Dried ripe fruit
Primary Functions
Replenishes Qi in the middle burning space
(Spleen
and Stomach), nourishes blood, soothes the mind, moderates the actions
of
other herbs in a formula
Qualities
Jujube is a very commonly used herb,
especially
in formulas that use Ginseng. It is the classic side-kick to Ginseng.
Anytime
you use Ginseng, you can use Jujube. The date is believed to enhance
the
activity of Ginseng while smoothing out any rough edges the Ginseng may
have. It harmonizes the ingredients in a formula, making the whole
formula
smooth in both taste and action. However, it is much more than just an
adjunctive
herb. It provides excellent energy and is a powerful Qi tonic in its
own
right.
It is an excellent tonic to the Spleen and Stomach, helping these
organs extract the energy from food and drink at maximum efficiency. It
is also
an excellent blood tonic. Jujube also has an emotionally calming
effect.
It is a mild Spirit stabilizer.
Primary
Combinations
Combine with:
1. Ginseng to tonify the Spleen and to build qi
2. Dang Gui and White Peony Root to tonify blood
Varieties and
Grading
The smaller the dates, the better. Be sure
that
the dates are fresh and free of insects. They are highly nutritious and
are easily and readily infested with moths and other creatures. Throw
them
out if you find any larvae. Where there's one, there are usually many
more
hidden away. The skin of a good quality Jujube should be firm, radiant
and
deeply wrinkled. If the dates are too large or too most, they will not
be
powerful. Remember, an herbalist can judge you by how you pick your
Jujubes.
If you select small ones, they will know that you know what you are
doing,
they will respect you and they will start showing you better quality
goods.
Most novices, of course, think that big, juicy dates are best.
Contraindications
Do not use when you are suffering from
excessive
phlegm, food retention, abdominal bloating and parasites.
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