Well, I had to break out my mittens again yesterday, but it wasn't too cold for this Cornelian Cherry - Cornus mas! It was so nice to be out again, making a tree essence - my first one this season. I had a visitor midway through the process…a small (and weirdly mellow) squirrel who hung out for a long time, snacking on flowers.
The Cornelian Cherry is actually a member of the Dogwood family. I’ve been reading up on its medicinal properties this morning. The edible fruit (which apparently tastes somewhat plum-like when ripe) contains phenolic compounds and ursolic acid which have antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects.
A few studies out there now suggest that the fruit can help prevent atherosclerosis (plaque build-up in the arteries), balance blood sugar, and reduce fat accumulation in the liver. So basically, this tree is an all-star. Its bright yellow flowers certainly jumped out at me this spring…I’ve been seeing these trees everywhere. Very much looking forward to sampling this one. 🌼
