Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Cornus extract

Also known as: Cornus mas, Cornus officinalis, Cornelian cherry, Japanese cornel, Asiatic dogwood, Cornus mas L.

Overview

Cornus extract is derived primarily from the fruits of *Cornus mas* (Cornelian cherry) and *Cornus officinalis* (Japanese cornel or Asiatic dogwood). These fruits are rich in various bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and iridoids, which contribute to their therapeutic properties. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, Cornus extracts are now being investigated for their potential benefits in managing metabolic syndrome, supporting cardiovascular health, and exhibiting antimicrobial activity. Research, including randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, indicates a growing body of clinical evidence, particularly for *Cornus mas* in improving metabolic parameters. The extract is typically consumed as a dietary supplement and is recognized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits

Cornus extract, particularly from *Cornus mas*, offers several evidence-based benefits. The primary benefit is its positive impact on metabolic syndrome and cardiometabolic health. A 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) found that *Cornus mas* supplementation significantly improved anthropometric parameters (e.g., body weight, BMI), glycemic control (fasting blood glucose), and lipid profiles, notably reducing LDL cholesterol by approximately 6.38 mg/dL. This effect, while modest, is clinically relevant for managing cardiometabolic risk. These benefits typically manifest within 1-3 months of consistent supplementation. Additionally, Cornus extracts possess strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to overall cardiovascular protection by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Secondary benefits include potential antibacterial and antiviral activities, with *Cornus officinalis* extracts showing inhibitory effects against hepatitis C virus protease and various bacterial strains like *E. coli* and *Staphylococcus aureus* in in vitro studies. The primary population benefiting from Cornus extract, based on current research, are adults with metabolic syndrome or dyslipidemia.

How it works

Cornus extracts exert their therapeutic effects primarily through their rich content of antioxidant polyphenols and iridoids. These compounds modulate oxidative stress pathways and inflammatory cascades within the body. They are also believed to inhibit enzymes involved in lipid metabolism and glucose regulation, such as HMG-CoA reductase, which contributes to their lipid-lowering and potential blood pressure-modulating effects. The antimicrobial properties are attributed to bioactive compounds that interfere with microbial enzymes and disrupt cell wall integrity. The absorption and bioavailability of these active compounds can be influenced by the extraction method, with ethanolic and hydro-methanolic extracts generally showing higher bioavailability of polyphenols.

Side effects

Cornus extracts are generally well-tolerated, with clinical trials reporting no serious adverse events. Common side effects are rare and typically mild, primarily involving gastrointestinal discomfort in a small percentage of users. There is currently no documentation of significant drug interactions or contraindications in high-quality studies. However, data on specific populations, such as pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children, are insufficient to establish safety, and therefore, use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking prescription medications should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation to ensure no potential interactions or adverse effects.

Dosage

Effective dosages of standardized Cornus extract in clinical trials typically range from 100 mg to 500 mg daily. These extracts are often standardized to their polyphenol content to ensure consistency. The duration of supplementation in studies commonly ranged from 4 to 12 weeks, with benefits in metabolic parameters usually observed within 1 to 3 months. The form of the extract (e.g., hydro-methanolic vs. ethanolic) can influence its potency and absorption, so using standardized extracts is recommended for consistent results. While no established maximum safe dose has been determined, the doses used in clinical trials have demonstrated a good safety margin. It is important to follow product-specific dosing instructions and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially when addressing specific health conditions.

FAQs

Is Cornus extract safe for long-term use?

Current evidence supports the safety of Cornus extract for short- to medium-term use (up to 3 months). Data on long-term safety beyond this period are limited, so caution is advised for extended use.

When can I expect to see benefits from Cornus extract?

Improvements in metabolic parameters, such as blood glucose and lipid profiles, typically begin to appear within 1 to 3 months of consistent daily supplementation.

Can Cornus extract replace my prescribed medications?

No, Cornus extract should be considered an adjunctive supplement to support health, not a replacement for prescribed medications. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication regimen.

Are all Cornus species equally effective?

Most clinical evidence for metabolic benefits is specific to *Cornus mas*. *Cornus officinalis* shows promising antimicrobial properties, but more clinical trial data are needed to confirm its efficacy for metabolic health.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/13/2173 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials investigated the effects of *Cornus mas* supplementation on metabolic syndrome parameters. It concluded that *Cornus mas* significantly improved anthropometric measures, glycemic control, and lipid profiles, highlighting its potential as an intervention for metabolic syndrome with a low risk of bias.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/fsn3.2416 – This meta-analysis focused on the impact of *Cornus mas* on lipid profiles, specifically quantifying a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol (approximately 6.38 mg/dL). The study included RCTs with adequate controls, but noted variability in extract standardization and dosing as a limitation.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1309963/full – This comprehensive review summarized the phytochemistry and pharmacology of *Cornus officinalis*, detailing its bioactive compounds and their mechanistic insights. It highlighted the antibacterial and antiviral activities of the extract, though primarily based on preclinical and in vitro data, indicating a need for further clinical validation.