Red Dates (Jujube)
红枣 · Hóngzǎo
Ziziphus jujuba
Family: Rhamnaceae · Part used: Ripe fruit · Origin: Xinjiang (Ruoqiang) & Hebei (Cangzhou), China
Nature
Warm
Flavor
Sweet
Meridian
Spleen, Stomach
The beloved Chinese date is both food and medicine, nourishing the middle burner and generating blood. Xinjiang's desert sun produces exceptionally sweet, fleshy dates. In formulas jujube moderates harsh herbs and protects the stomach; in the kitchen it sweetens soups, congees, and teas — the comfort food of Chinese households.
🌿 Functions & Actions
- •Tonifies spleen qi and nourishes blood
- •Calms the spirit
- •Moderates and harmonizes other herbs
- •Protects the stomach
📋 Traditional Indications
- •Fatigue and poor appetite
- •Palpitations and forgetfulness
- •Blood deficiency with pale complexion
- •Irritability and weepiness (with gan cao & wheat)
- •Convalescence
📖 Usage & Dosage
3–10 pieces (10–30 g) simmered in soups, teas, and congee. Split or tear before cooking to release the sweetness.
🍵 Classic Recipes
Hong Zao Gou Qi Tea
Red dates 5 pcs + goji 10 g, simmered 15 minutes — the everyday blood-nourishing tea.
Gan Mai Da Zao Decoction
Licorice, wheat, and jujube — the classical formula for emotional distress and weepiness.
🔬 Modern Research
Jujube polysaccharides, flavonoids (spinosin), and triterpenic acids are studied for calming effects, gut health, and antioxidant activity.
⚠️ Contraindications
Use with caution in damp-phlegm conditions, bloating, and dental caries tendency due to high sugar.
