Da Zao (Black Jujube Date) – Ziziphus jujuba
Da Zao (Ziziphus jujuba), also known as Hei Zao or Black Jujube Date, is a traditional herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For centuries, it has been valued for its ability to tonify Qi, support the Spleen and Stomach, and harmonize herbal formulas, helping to restore balance when deficiency patterns arise in the body.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, Da Zao is commonly included in formulas designed to support digestion, nourish the body, and moderate the effects of other herbs.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium Da Zao bulk herb selected for quality, potency, and traditional authenticity.
Our herbs are ideal for:
• Herbal practitioners
• Custom herbal formulas
• Decoctions and teas
• Practitioner herb packs
Learn More About This Herb
Want to explore the traditional classification, channels, and historical use of this herb in greater depth?
Traditional Uses of Da Zao in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Da Zao is classified as a Qi Tonifying Herb.
Traditionally, it is used to:
• Tonify Spleen Qi
• Support Stomach function
• Nourish and support overall vitality
• Harmonize and moderate the actions of other herbs
• Support digestive balance
In classical herbal theory, Da Zao enters the Spleen and Stomach channels, where it helps restore balance when deficiency and digestive weakness disrupt normal physiological function.
Because of these properties, Da Zao is widely used in traditional herbal formulas and practitioner herb packs.
Herbs Often Used With Da Zao
Da Zao is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger) or Gan Jiang (Dried Ginger)
• Gan Cao (Licorice Root)
• Ren Shen (Ginseng Root)
• Bai Zhu (Atractylodes Rhizome)
These herbs are commonly used together to support balanced herbal formulas.
Modern Research on Ziziphus jujuba
Modern research has identified important compounds in Ziziphus jujuba, including polysaccharides, flavonoids, and natural sugars, which have been studied for their nutritional and antioxidant properties.
Scientific interest in this herb has explored potential roles in supporting:
• Digestive health
• Immune system balance
• Nervous system regulation
• Protection against oxidative stress
While research continues, this herb remains primarily valued within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Premium Quality Da Zao (Hei Zao)
High-quality Hei Zao should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Dark brown to black color
• Plump, slightly wrinkled fruit
• Soft, dense texture
• Mild, sweet aroma
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly dried to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Harvesting
Ziziphus jujuba is cultivated throughout China, where it has long been used as both a food and medicinal herb.
The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the fruit (date).
For Hei Zao, the fruit undergoes additional processing (such as steaming or extended drying), which deepens its color and modifies its traditional characteristics. After harvesting:
• Fruits are cleaned
• Processed to achieve the characteristic dark color
• Carefully dried
• Sorted for quality
• Fully prepared for herbal use
How Da Zao is Traditionally Used
Da Zao may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Herbal Tea
Use 2–3 whole dates and steep in hot water for 10–15 minutes.
Decoction
Simmer 3–5 pieces in approximately 500 ml of water for 20–30 minutes.
Herbal Formulas
Da Zao is widely used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas and is often included to harmonize and moderate stronger herbs.
Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for dosage and individualized guidance.
Safety and Precautions
This herb should be used appropriately according to individual constitution.
Use caution if:
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking prescription medications
• Sensitive to sweet or tonifying herbs
• Managing blood sugar levels
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.
Additional Information
Botanical Name: Ziziphus jujuba
Common Names: Da Zao (Hei Zao), Black Jujube Date, Chinese Black Date
Flavor: Sweet
Temperature: Warm
Channels Entered:
• Spleen
• Stomach
Contraindications:
Use caution in cases of dampness or digestive stagnation.
Why Choose Plum Dragon Herbs?
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we specialize in authentic Chinese medicinal herbs sourced for quality and potency. Our herbs are selected and processed according to traditional standards to support the needs of practitioners, martial artists, herbalists, and enthusiasts alike.
Experience the tradition and quality of authentic Chinese herbs from Plum Dragon Herbs.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page reflects traditional herbal knowledge and historical use within Chinese medicine and is intended for educational purposes only.
Plum Dragon Herbs products are raw botanical materials and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.