Suan Zao Ren in TCM: The Potential Benefits of Jujube Seed for Cognitive Health

The seeds of the jujube fruit (Zizyphus jujuba), known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as 酸枣仁 (Suan Zao Ren), have been used for thousands of years to support emotional and physical well-being. The seeds come from a sweet, date-like fruit known as Suan Zao. In TCM, Suan Zao Ren is on the all-star list of herbs, possessing calming and nourishing qualities. 

Recent research adds to the reasons why you should consider adding Jujube to your TCM shopping list. The fruit’s seed, Suan Zao Ren, shows promising potential in supporting cognitive health (more on this below). 

The Properties of Jujube Seed in TCM

In TCM, Suan Zao Ren nourishes the Heart (Xin) and Liver (Gan) organ systems. It addresses patterns of Heart and Liver Blood deficiency or Yin deficiency, which may manifest as irritability, restlessness, sleeplessness, palpitations, or night sweats. By calming the Shen (spirit) and replenishing Blood, Suan Zao Ren restores a sense of peace and vitality.

Jujube seed is a key ingredient in formulas like Te Xiao Zao Ren An Mian Pian (a signature formula sold as “Sleepeace” under ActiveHerb.com’s Guang Ci Tang brand). Sleepeace supports restful sleep, alleviates irritability, generates bodily fluids, prevents excessive sweating and nourishes overall emotional well-being. 

TCM distinguishes between different parts of the jujube plant: the fruit is used in formulas to tonify Qi and Blood, while the seed calms the spirit, and as we’ll learn about below, may support cognitive well-being. Jujube seeds are often roasted to enhance their therapeutic properties and may be consumed as instant hot herbal tea. 

Promising Research on Jujube Seed and Cognitive Health

A recent study reveals the potential of jujube seed to support cognitive function, particularly through a novel preparation method. Japanese scientists found that crushing jujube seeds into powder—not the traditional hot water extraction method—yielded remarkable results in mouse models of cognitive dysfunction.

The study, led by researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University, demonstrated that crushed jujube seed powder improved memory and motor functions in mice. These effects were observed in various models of cognitive dysfunction, including aging mice and those with neurodegenerative conditions. The treatment even restored cognitive abilities in elderly mice to levels comparable to much younger counterparts.

Additionally, the crushed seed powder was shown to enhance brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) production, which plays a key role in neuron growth and cognitive resilience. It also reduced oxidative stress and markers of cellular aging in the brain, further supporting its potential as a neuroprotective agent.

While these findings are exciting, it’s important to note that they are based on animal studies. More research is needed to confirm whether these benefits translate to humans.

Jujube Seed Support For Blood Sugar and Insulin

Cognitive decline is increasingly being referred to as “type 3 diabetes” due to the connection between insulin resistance and neurological function. Insulin resistance disrupts the brain’s ability to utilize glucose effectively, which can impair cognitive function over time. This newfound connection makes it vital for people to manage their blood sugar and insulin levels to maintain their cognitive function.

This brings up the question if research supports Jujube fruit and seeds for already-healthy blood sugar levels. Some research (like this study) suggests that jujube may indeed support normal blood glucose levels and enhance insulin sensitivity, which could indirectly support cognitive function. For example. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that like the Japanese study, the research on Jujube is in the preliminary stages. Furthermore, the research does not imply that Jujube fruit/seed is in any way shape or form a substitute for a healthy, balanced diet and excercise.

Nonetheless, the dual ability of jujube to support cognitive function and potentially support healthy blood sugar levels makes it an intriguing focus for future research. 

The Timeless Wisdom of Suan Zao Ren

Whether used to calm the mind, nourish the spirit, or potentially support cognitive and metabolic health, Suan Zao Ren is a testament to the the wisdom of centuries-old Chinese herbal tradition. While more studies are needed to fully understand its benefits for humans, Jujube fruit may promote overall well-being. 

Where to Buy Suan Zao Ren

ActiveHerb.com offers Suan Zao Ren extract granules, which can be added to warm/hot water for instant tea, oatmeal, yogurt or other foods and drinks. Each 100-gram bottle provides 100 servings and offers 10x concentration of roasted jujube seed, making it equal to 1,000 grams of the raw herb, dried.   

References: 

Tomohiro Umeda, et. al. Simply crushed Zizyphi spinosi semen prevents neurodegenerative diseases and reverses age-related cognitive decline in mice. eLife. 2024; 13:RP100737

Kaeidi A, Taati M, Hajializadeh Z, Jahandari F, Rashidipour M. Aqueous extract of Zizyphus jujuba fruit attenuates glucose induced neurotoxicity in an in vitro model of diabetic neuropathy. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2015 Mar;18(3):301-6.