Jujube Date (Da Zao)

Overview

The jujube or red date, Da Zao, is the fruit of Ziziphus jujuba. Sweet and warm, it enters the spleen and stomach meridians, and is one of the most beloved food-herbs in China, where it is simmered in soups, congee and teas. Its partner Zhi Mu ... rather, its close relative Suan Zao Ren (the seed) is the famous herb for insomnia; the fruit itself gently nourishes.

Traditional Uses in TCM

• Building blood and qi: for pale complexion, fatigue and poor appetite, dates are eaten daily, especially by women after menstruation.
• Calming the spirit: they ease restlessness and mild insomnia, traditionally combined with licorice and wheat (Gan Mai Da Zao Tang) for mood.
• Protecting the stomach: in formulas, dates moderate harsh herbs and shield the stomach, the classic partner of fresh ginger.

How to Use

Eat 3 to 6 dates a day, simmer them in congee or soup (remove the hard pit), or steep with goji berries and longan for a blood-nourishing tea. Steamed dates are softer and easier to digest. In winter, red date and ginger tea is the standard warming household drink.

Safety and Cautions

Dates are sweet and warming: people with damp phlegm, bloating, diabetes or on sugar restriction should moderate intake. Whole dates are a choking hazard for small children, and the pit is hard. Because they moisten, large amounts can cause loose stools. Dental care matters, as dried dates are sticky and sweet.