Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus officinalis)

Shan Zhu Yu (Cornus officinalis) fruit is primarily valued for its bioactive compounds rather than macronutrient content. Key bioactive compounds include: Iridoid glycosides — notably loganin (approximately 1.5–3.5% dry weight) and morroniside (1.0–2.5% dry weight), which are considered primary active constituents responsible for hepatoprotective and renoprotective effects. Organic acids — ursolic acid (0.3–0.8%) and gallic acid (0.1–0.4%), contributing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Tannins — including cornusin A and tellimagrandin, comprising approximately 5–15% of dry weight, with notable astringent and antioxidant properties. Flavonoids — such as quercetin and kaempferol glycosides (approximately 0.2–0.6%), supporting cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits. Polysaccharides — (approximately 5–10% dry weight), contributing to immunomodulatory effects by enhancing lymphocyte proliferation. Triterpenoids — including oleanolic acid and ursolic acid, with hepatoprotective and anti-hyperglycemic activity. Minerals — contains calcium (~200–350 mg/100g dry weight), potassium (~400–600 mg/100g), magnesium (~80–150 mg/100g), zinc (~2–5 mg/100g), and iron (~3–8 mg/100g). Vitamins — modest amounts of vitamin C (~15–30 mg/100g fresh fruit) and small quantities of B-vitamins. Fiber — approximately 8–12% of dry weight. Protein — low, approximately 3–5% of dry weight. Anthocyanins — present in the red fruit flesh, including cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (approximately 0.05–0.2%), contributing antioxidant capacity. Bioavailability notes — Iridoid glycosides (loganin, morroniside) demonstrate moderate oral bioavailability (~20–35%) and are metabolized by gut microbiota. Tannins may reduce bioavailability of co-consumed iron and proteins. Traditional decoction preparation enhances extraction of water-soluble glycosides and polysaccharides. Organic acids such as ursolic acid have relatively low oral bioavailability (~8–15%) but can be enhanced through lipid-based formulations.