ENGLISH NAME: Cornelian Cherry
LATIN NAME: Cornus mas
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Dřín obecný
Turkey: Kızılcık
Bulgaria: Дрян (Dryan)
Georgia: შინდი (Shindi)
COUNTRY: Georgia, Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: All regions of Georgia; also found across Central and Eastern Europe,
and Western Asia
Elevation: Lowlands to mid-elevations
Terrain: Forests, meadows, woodland edges, gardens
DESCRIPTION:
Cornelian cherry is a deciduous shrub or small tree, growing up to 5–7 meters
tall. It has an upright, rounded form with glossy green, oval-shaped leaves
that turn reddish-purple in autumn. In late winter to early spring, clusters of
bright yellow flowers bloom before the leaves appear, providing early color in
the landscape. Later, oblong, cherry-like fruits ripen to a brilliant red,
typically by late summer. The plant is valued both for its ornamental qualities
and its tart, edible fruit.
USABLE PARTS: Fruit, bark, leaves
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Antioxidant: Fruits are high in vitamin C and phenolic
compounds, supporting cellular health and reducing oxidative stress.
Anti-Inflammatory: Bark contains compounds studied for their
anti-inflammatory effects.
Antimicrobial: Both fruit and bark exhibit antimicrobial
properties, traditionally used to help fight infections.
Immune System
Support: Fruit’s vitamin
C boosts immune function.
Astringent: Leaves can be used as astringents for
diarrhea or minor wounds.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Allergic
Reactions: Rare, but
possible—may include skin irritation or respiratory symptoms.
Gastrointestinal
Issues: Overconsumption
of fruit may cause stomach upset or diarrhea.
Seed Toxicity: Seeds contain small amounts of cyanogenic
glycosides; avoid consuming large quantities.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
May be combined with elderberry or rosehip for enhanced antioxidant and immune
support.
PREPARATION:
Tea: 1–2 tsp dried bark or leaves per cup hot
water, steep 10–15 min, strain and drink.
Tincture: Chop dried bark or leaves, infuse in alcohol
for several weeks, strain, store in dark glass bottles, use in small,
controlled doses.
Infused Oil
(external use): Infuse dried
bark in carrier oil for several weeks, strain, use topically.
HARVEST TIME:
Fruit: Late spring to early autumn, when fully red
and slightly soft.
Bark/Leaves: Spring to early summer, before or after
flowering.
HARVEST METHOD:
Bark: Carefully strip small sections from branches
using a clean knife, ensuring sustainable harvest.
Leaves: Selectively prune healthy leaves using clean
scissors or shears.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Fruit: Dehydrate and store in airtight containers,
or freeze for longer-term use.
Bark/Leaves: Dry thoroughly and store in airtight
containers away from light and moisture.
Tinctures/Oils: Store in tightly sealed, dark glass bottles
in a cool, dark place.