What it is
Ziziphus var. spinosa, also known as Ziziphus spinosa or spinosa jujube, is a species of plant in the Rhamnaceae family. It is a small deciduous tree native to the northern regions of China and is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. The history of Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa as a supplement can be traced back to ancient China, where it has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. The plant was first mentioned in the ancient Chinese medical text "Shennong Bencao Jing" (The Divine Farmer's Herb-Root Classic), which was written during the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD). In this text, Ziziphus Spinosa was described as having sedative and calming effects, and was recommended for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.
Over time, the use of Ziziphus Spinosa in traditional medicine has continued to evolve and expand. Today, it is commonly used as a supplement to treat a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue. In addition, some studies have suggested that it may have potential benefits for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and liver diseases. Ziziphus Spinosa is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, triterpenoids, and saponins. These compounds are thought to contribute to the plant's health benefits, as they have been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties.
It is commonly available in a variety of forms on the market, including capsules, tablets, and teas. Some products may also contain extracts of the plant, which are concentrated forms of the active compounds found in the plant. These extracts are typically standardized to a specific concentration of the active compounds, allowing for consistent dosing and potency.
How it works
Ziziphus Spinosa contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, triterpenoids, and saponins. These compounds are thought to contribute to the plant's potential health benefits, including its effects on neurocognition:
Flavonoids are a class of phytochemicals found in plants, including Ziziphus Spinosa. They have been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, which may contribute to the plant's potential benefits for the brain and nervous system.
Triterpenoids are a class of compounds found in Ziziphus Spinosa that are structurally related to steroids. They have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and sedative properties, which may contribute to the plant's potential benefits for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.
Saponins are a class of compounds found in Ziziphus Spinosa that are structurally related to detergents. They have been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties, which may contribute to the plant's potential benefits for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia.
So it is the active compounds in Ziziphus Spinosa that are thought to contribute to its potential effects on neurocognition by possessing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties. More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action of these compounds and their potential effects on the brain and nervous system.
In terms of the felt effects of Ziziphus Spinosa, it is commonly used as a supplement to improve cognitive function, such as memory and learning. Some studies have suggested that it may have potential benefits for the treatment of cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. It is also used as a supplement to promote relaxation and improve sleep.
As with any supplement, Ziziphus Spinosa may have potential side effects. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and stomach discomfort. In rare cases, Ziziphus Spinosa may cause allergic reactions, such as rashes or difficulty breathing. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking Ziziphus Spinosa, as it may interact with certain medications or medical conditions.
How it is taken
The typical way most people use Ziziphus Spinosa is by taking it orally in capsule, tablet, or tea form. The recommended dose of Ziziphus Spinosa varies depending on the specific product and the individual's age, sex, and other factors. In general, the recommended dose is typically in the range of 500-1000 mg per day.
The best time of day to take Ziziphus Spinosa depends on the intended use of the supplement. If it is being used to promote relaxation and improve sleep, it is typically recommended to take it in the evening before bedtime. If it is being used to improve cognitive function, it may be taken in the morning or at any time of day. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for specific dosing recommendations based on the individual's needs and medical history.
References and further reading:
Wang X, Chen X, Chen L, et al. Ziziphus jujuba var. spinosa (ZJ) for treating insomnia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Ethnopharmacol. 2019;244:112183.
Zhang L, Yang X, Wu H, et al. Protective effects of Ziziphus jujuba Mill var. spinosa seed extract against lipid peroxidation in human erythrocytes. Pharmacogn Mag. 2018;14(55):72-77.
Gao S, Wei J, Wang S, et al. Effects of Ziziphus jujuba Mill var. spinosa (CCHS) on anxiety-like behaviors and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus of mice. Behav Brain Res. 2016;307:37-43.
Tang Z, Wang J, Yin G, et al. Ziziphus jujuba Mill var. spinosa leaf extract ameliorates spatial memory impairment in scopolamine-induced amnesia mice. Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2014;35(3):347-353.
Sun Y, He Y, Liu Z, et al. Ziziphus jujuba Mill. var. spinosa (C.H. Wright) Rehd. et Wils.: a review of phytochemistry and pharmacology. Molecules. 2012;17(8):9798-9826.