Dogwood (Cornus officinalis)
Synopsis
Dogwood refers to various species in the Cornus genus, with Cornus florida (flowering dogwood) and Cornus officinalis (Japanese cornelian cherry) being the most recognized for medicinal purposes. While some species are cultivated ornamentally, others have historical and botanical significance in Western and Eastern herbal traditions, particularly for their bark and fruit.
Medicinal actions and constituents vary by species but generally include:
- Astringent tannins – helpful for reducing inflammation, diarrhea, and bleeding
- Iridoid glycosides – offering mild antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity
- Antioxidants such as anthocyanins and vitamin C (especially in the berries of Cornus officinalis)
- Potential febrifuge (fever-reducing) and tonic effects
Cornus florida (American dogwood) bark was historically used to:
- Treat fevers and malaria, serving as a substitute for cinchona bark (quinine)
- Address diarrhea, dysentery, and digestive weakness
- Act as a bitter tonic to support appetite and liver function
Cornus officinalis, used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and known as Shan Zhu Yu, is used to:
- Stabilize the kidneys and essence (jing), particularly in cases of incontinence, impotence, dizziness, and tinnitus
- Support liver and reproductive health
- Treat excessive sweating, especially in deficiency-type conditions
- Act as a tonic for aging, often included in formulas to strengthen kidney yang and yin
Dogwood is used in tincture, decoction, or powdered bark/fruit form, depending on the species and purpose. While not a common modern Western herb, it is still utilized in regional folk practices and TCM.
Historical Use
In North American herbalism, Cornus florida bark was highly valued by both Native American tribes and colonial physicians for treating fevers, malaria, and typhoid-like illnesses. During the Civil War, dogwood bark was used as a quinine substitute when access to imported medicines was cut off. It was also included in bitters and tonics for general debility and digestive restoration.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Cornus officinalis has been used for over 1,000 years, often in formulas with herbs like Rehmannia, Schisandra, and Morinda, particularly for chronic kidney deficiency, night sweats, and premature ejaculation. It was also considered helpful for stabilizing blood and preventing leakage of fluids.
In European folk medicine, various Cornus species were used in wound care, digestive support, and fever management, though less commonly than in Asia or North America.
Today, dogwood’s use is mostly preserved in traditional medicine systems, with Cornus officinalis remaining important in TCM and Cornus florida occasionally referenced in American folk herbalism. Its legacy lives on more through historical significance than widespread modern clinical use.
Body Systems
Immune System (Science)
Kidneys (Science)
Male Reproductive System (Science)
Urinary System (Science)