Ligustrum
Other names for Ligustrum
dried ligustrum berry extract
glossy privet fruit extract
ligustrum
ligustrum berry
ligustrum berry extract
ligustrum concentrated extract
ligustrum extract
ligustrum fruit (berry) (1:1) extract
ligustrum fruit concentrated extract
ligustrum fruit extract
ligustrum fruit extract concentrate
ligustrum fruit, powder
ligustrum (ligustrum lucidum) berry extract
ligustrum (ligustrum lucidum) fruit extract
ligustrum (ligustrum lucidum) fruit extract 5:1
ligustrum lucidum
ligustrum lucidum ait
ligustrum lucidum extract
ligustrum lucidum fruit extract
ligustrum lucidum fruit extract concentrate
ligustrum lucidum fruit extract, dry
ligustrum seed extract
ligustrum wallichii
nu zhen zi
nu zhen zi dried fruit liquid extract
nu zhen zi extract
nu zhen zi fruit extract, dry
nu zhen zi (ligustrum lucidum) dried fruit liquid extract
Synopsis of Ligustrum
History
Ligustrum, commonly known as privet, is a genus of flowering plants traditionally valued in herbal medicine, particularly within Chinese herbalism. The species Ligustrum lucidum, or glossy privet, has a rich history dating back centuries, where it has been employed for its restorative and protective properties. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Ligustrum—referred to as "Nu Zhen Zi"—is regarded as a vital tonic herb. It is believed to nourish the liver and kidneys, support healthy vision, and promote overall vitality and longevity.
Historical remedies often featured Ligustrum as a means to combat fatigue, premature graying of hair, and immune challenges. Its berries were frequently used to help restore energy, strengthen bones and muscles, and reinforce the body's resistance to stress and environmental factors. It was also administered to balance the body's yin, which plays a crucial role in maintaining internal harmony and resilience.
Ligustrum’s synergistic qualities have made it a popular ingredient in herbal combinations. It is commonly paired with other renowned tonic herbs, such as Eclipta (Han Lian Cao), Rehmannia, and Goji berry (Lycium), to enhance their restorative and immune-supporting effects. These combinations are often aimed at promoting longevity, supporting healthy aging, and improving the body’s natural defenses. Today, Ligustrum remains a valued component in a variety of nutritional products due to its gentle, supportive action and its long-standing reputation as a rejuvenating herbal remedy.
Traditional and scientific validation
Ligustrum, commonly known as privet, is a genus of flowering plants traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine, particularly Ligustrum lucidum (Glossy Privet). In traditional practices, Ligustrum is valued for its purported ability to support immune function, promote longevity, and improve liver and kidney health. Its berries and leaves have been used in decoctions and extracts for centuries, often in combination with other herbs.
Scientific investigations into Ligustrum's bioactive compounds have identified a range of constituents, including oleanolic acid, flavonoids, and secoiridoid glycosides, which are thought to contribute to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects. Preliminary animal and in vitro studies suggest that Ligustrum extracts may enhance immune response, protect against oxidative stress, and support healthy liver function. For example, research published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology has demonstrated immunostimulant effects in animal models, while other studies have reported hepatoprotective properties.
Despite these promising findings, clinical trials in humans remain limited. Some small-scale studies and anecdotal reports indicate potential benefits for immune health and general well-being, but larger, well-designed clinical trials are needed to substantiate these effects and determine optimal dosage and safety profiles.
Overall, Ligustrum has a rich history of traditional use and encouraging preliminary scientific support for its health-promoting properties. As research advances, Ligustrum may continue to be a valuable ingredient in nutritional products, though further clinical validation is warranted to fully confirm its efficacy and safety.
Ligustrum is used for these health conditions
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Conjunctivitis (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Nephritis (Traditional)
Nervous Exhaustion (Traditional)
Pneumonia (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Ligustrum is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Eyes (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lymphatics (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)