Privet fruit, also known as Ligustrum, aids in digestion and may be of immense help in cases of serious bowel problems and stomach ulcer. The fruit also helps to nourish and tone the liver, blood, as well as the kidneys. It is good for the skin and alleviates conditions such as dizziness, tinnitus, lower back pain, and spots in front of the eyes. In fact, in traditional medicine, privet fruit is often used in combination with astragalus root to fight long-term fatigue, chronic illness or deficiency, and many degenerative conditions such as overall immune weakness.
This herb is also believed to be an amazing tonic which helps to improve vision and darken the hair, especially with premature graying of hair, blurred vision, and frequent constipation in the aged. It is also used in the detox of serious cases of benzene poisoning.
Oleanolic Acid, an active ingredient, is 100% naturally extracted from privet fruit. Oleanolic Acid contains amazing effects on the liver, and so it is recognized in the treatment of chronic active cirrhosis and hepatitis. As a matter of fact, studies indicate that Oleanolic Acid also helps to improve immunity, lower blood glucose levels, as well as contain anti-inflammatory properties.
However, it is important not to confuse privet fruit (Ligustrum lucidum) with other species of privet like border privet, common privet, Japanese privet, Chinese privet (Ligustrum sinense), or golden privet.
The Health Benefits of Privet Fruit
Now, let’s take a closer look at the amazing health benefits of Privet fruit.
Boosts Heart Health
Privet fruit also possesses diuretic and cardiotonic properties. This means that it has an energizing effect on the heart, which increases the strength of contractions of the heart muscles. When this happens, more blood is pumped across the body and to its many organs more efficiently.
Reduce the Side Effects of Chemotherapy
Some studies have shown that privet fruit can be effective in reducing the side effects of chemotherapy in patients. Particularly, the plant has the ability to increase white blood cells to inhibit bone marrow loss because of the radioactive therapies. It can also be effective for inducing sweating, which can boost the patient’s immunity.
Inhibits the Growth of Tumors
Although more conclusive medical studies and clinical trials are needed, it is believed that the liquid extracts of privet fruit also helps to prevent the growth of tumors and in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, AIDS, hepatitis, as well as respiratory tract infections.
Promotes the Removal of Salt and Water
Privet fruit liquid extract can also boost the elimination of salt and water from the kidneys which, in turn, increases the volume of urine.
Relieves Pain
Apart from relieving menopausal cramps, privet fruit is also effective for backaches and rheumatic pains.
Alleviates Stress and Dizziness
Owing to its cooling effect, the raw and dried privet fruit is used in traditional medicine to relieve heat connected to emotional stress and even infection. In fact, individuals who suffer from blurred vision, dizziness and emotional stress will find this amazing superfood very helpful.
Other Benefits of Privet Fruit
Privet fruit is also known for treating arthritis, insomnia, common cold, constipation, stomach congestion. The fruit also relieves painful joints due to rheumatism, reduces heart palpitations, promotes hair growth, lessens facial dark spots, delays premature aging, as well as prolonging lifespan.
Side Effects and Precautions
Privet fruit contains an impressive range of health benefits but it may have a few side effects as well. Although it can be consumed daily without worries, there are reports that the fruit may be mildly toxic. It is important to remember that it is quite possible that some parts of the plant contain toxins.
Therefore, the following precautions should be taken:
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should avoid privet fruit, especially privet tea. In addition, children who are under the ages of 12 shouldn’t drink privet tea.
- Privet can aggravate the symptoms of asthma, especially for those already suffering from this health conditions.
- If you suffer from diarrhea, you should also avoid consuming privet fruit.
- Like with other herbal teas, privet tea should be taken with caution. Drinking about 5-6 cups per day is fine. This is because consuming too much of the fruit or its tea might result in symptoms such as vomiting, headaches, dizziness, loss of appetite, and insomnia.
- Some people suffer an allergy to the pollen of olive and similar plants. And so, privet fruit may result in an allergic reaction in individuals who are sensitive to plants belonging to the Oleaceae family. The plants in this family include olive, lilac, common privet (Ligustrum vulgare), olive, and ash. Before you take privet fruit, it is best to consult your doctor, especially if you have allergies.
Dosing
The right dose of privet is dependent on certain factors, including the user’s health, age, and many other conditions. Currently, there is not enough scientific evidence to ascertain the right range of doses for privet. However, it is important to note that herbal products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be essential. It is advisable to adhere to relevant directions on herbal product labels and consult your healthcare professional before using the herb.
The Bottom Line
Evidently, privet fruit is a wonderful herb that is mild and considered safe. It is well-known for its ability to boost immunity. The herb contains a diverse range of health benefits, including the ability to treat heat caused by menopause and boost vision that has become weak and blurred owing to a person’s extended state of weakness. Privet fruit is also effective for treating dizziness, fatigue, floaters and spots before the eyes, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), premature graying of hair, aching lower back, as well as macular degeneration.
However, privet fruit is not to be used by individuals who have diarrhea that is due to a weak digestive system.
Privet fruit is available in health food stores or online. In addition, while the fruit is largely considered safe, it is important to check with your doctor first before consuming it.