Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Ligustrum lucidum (Oleaceae)

Botanical Information

Family: Oleaceae
Common Names: Glossy Privet, Chinese Privet, Wax-leaf Privet
Parts Used: Berries (Fruit)

Description

Ligustrum lucidum, commonly known as Glossy Privet, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to China and East Asia. It is widely cultivated for hedging and ornamental purposes, but its medicinal berries are highly valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for their ability to nourish the liver, strengthen the immune system, and support longevity. The fruit is traditionally used as a kidney and liver tonic, helping to enhance vitality, protect against aging, and support immune function.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a yin tonic to nourish the liver and kidneys.
  • Traditionally taken to support immune health, improve vision, and increase longevity.
  • Employed for gray hair prevention and restoring vitality in aging individuals.
  • Used in herbal formulas for chronic fatigue, low immunity, and night sweats.
  • Sometimes combined with other adaptogenic herbs to strengthen the body’s resistance to stress.

Constituents

  • Triterpenoids (Liver-protective, immune-modulating)
  • Flavonoids (Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory)
  • Polysaccharides (Immune-boosting)
  • Phenolic Compounds (Neuroprotective, anti-aging)

Actions

  • Adaptogenic
  • Hepatoprotective (Liver-supporting)
  • Immune tonic
  • Antioxidant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Kidney tonic

Medicinal Uses

  1. Liver & Kidney Support
    • Traditionally used to protect and nourish the liver and kidneys.
    • Helps with chronic fatigue, weak immunity, and detoxification.
  2. Immune System & Longevity
    • Supports immune function and resistance to infections.
    • Used in anti-aging formulations for long-term vitality.
  3. Eye & Vision Health
    • Traditionally taken to improve vision and reduce eye fatigue.
    • Often paired with goji berries in TCM for eye nourishment.
  4. Gray Hair & Premature Aging
    • Thought to slow the graying of hair and maintain youthful energy.
    • Used in traditional herbal blends for hair and skin vitality.
  5. Inflammation & Circulatory Support
    • May help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
    • Supports circulation and cardiovascular health.

Preparation and Dosage

Decoction (For Liver & Immune Support):

  • 1-2 tbsp of dried berries per 3 cups of water.
  • Simmer for 20 minutes, strain, and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Capsules or Powdered Extract:

  • 1-3 grams per day, often included in TCM formulations.

Herbal Formula (For Longevity & Immunity):

  • Often combined with astragalus, reishi, and goji berry for an adaptogenic immune tonic.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use with caution, consult a practitioner.
  • Autoimmune Conditions: May stimulate immune activity, so use cautiously in autoimmune disorders.
  • Not for Acute Illnesses: Best suited for long-term strengthening, rather than acute infections.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM):

  • Sweet, neutral in nature.
  • Tonifies Yin and strengthens the Liver and Kidney meridians.
  • Used in deficiency conditions (chronic fatigue, night sweats, low immunity).

Western Herbalism:

  • Considered cooling and nourishing, helping with long-term vitality and immune function.

Combinations

  • For Liver & Kidney Support: Combine with schisandra and reishi.
  • For Eye Health: Blend with goji berries and bilberry.
  • For Immune Strengthening: Use with astragalus and cordyceps.
  • For Anti-Aging & Gray Hair Prevention: Pair with he shou wu (Polygonum multiflorum) and ginseng.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting:
    • Berries are collected in late autumn when fully ripe.
  • Drying:
    • Air dry berries in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage:
    • Keep dried berries in an airtight container, away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

  • Studies confirm Ligustrum lucidum’s immune-modulating effects, supporting its traditional use in immune and longevity formulas.
  • Research suggests its antioxidants and polysaccharides help reduce inflammation and protect the liver.
  • Some evidence supports its role in neuroprotection and vision health, aligning with TCM applications.

Conclusion

Ligustrum lucidum (Glossy Privet) is a powerful immune tonic, liver protector, and longevity herb traditionally used in TCM to nourish the body, support vitality, and promote graceful aging. While it is safe for long-term use, it is best used as part of a balanced herbal regimen rather than a standalone remedy.

🌿 A timeless herbal ally for longevity, resilience, and inner strength!