Botanical Overview
Cornus macrophylla belongs to the Cornaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Cornaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
Cornus macrophylla, commonly known as the large-leafed dogwood, is a species of dogwood found in Afghanistan, Bhutan, India, Kashmir, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Taiwan, and several provinces in China, including Anhui, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi, Guizhou, Hainan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Ningxia, Shaanxi, Shandong, Sichuan, Xizang, Yunnan, and Zhejiang.
Family Context
The Cornaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Chinese Dogwood — 25 documented uses
- American Dogwood — 15 documented uses
- Japanese Aucuba — 2 documented uses
- Happy Tree — 1 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Cornus macrophylla has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Afghanistan, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and others.
Traditional Uses
Cornus macrophylla has been traditionally used for digestive health and metabolic and nutritional health.
Digestive health.
- Dysentery
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Metabolic and nutritional health.
- Depurative
Metabolic applications include consuming the plant as a food, fresh juice, or herbal infusion. Regular use supports the body’s natural metabolic processes and nutritional status.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 1 compound in this species: betulinic-acid.