Jujube

Identity

Common Name

Jujube

Scientific Name

Ziziphus jujuba

Botanical Family

Rhamnaceae

Native Region

China and South Asia

Cultivation Regions

China, Korea, Middle East, Southern Europe

Plant Parts Used

Fruit, Seeds (suanzaoren)

Synonyms

Red Date, Dazao, Chinese Date

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A small thorny deciduous tree or shrub with glossy oval three-veined leaves, small yellow-green flowers, and round to oblong red-brown date-like drupes that dry to a chewy, sweet texture.

Historical Background

Jujube (red date, dazao) has been a staple of Chinese food and medicine for over 2,500 years, prized as a nourishing, calming, blood-building tonic. The sweet dried fruit is simmered into daily teas and soups, often paired with goji, ginger, and chrysanthemum, and is a symbol of harmony and longevity.

Earliest recorded uses: Recorded in Chinese herbals for over 2,500 years; a staple food and TCM tonic fruit (dazao).

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Sweet, date-like, caramel, malty

Tea Information

Research Summary

Jujube is a traditional nourishing and calming tonic in TCM, rich in polysaccharides and flavonoids. Clinical evidence is limited; small studies suggest mild sedative and antioxidant effects, but it is not a treatment for insomnia, anxiety, or any disease.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources