In traditional Chinese medicine, sumac (Rhus chinensis Mill.) fruits are used as a herb to address inflammation, diarrhea, malaria, and other gastrointestinal issues, and studies suggest they may also help with conditions like hyperuricemia and gastric ulcers.

Traditional Uses and Benefits:
Gastrointestinal Issues:
Chinese sumac fruits are traditionally used to treat various gastrointestinal problems, including diarrhea, dysentery, and other acute or chronic conditions.
Inflammation:
The plant has been used to address inflammatory conditions, and studies show that sumac fruit extract can reduce inflammatory reactions and prevent inflammation-associated disorders.
Malaria:
Traditional Chinese medicine also uses sumac to treat malaria.
Hyperuricemia:
Research indicates that Chinese sumac fruit extract can help prevent and treat hyperuricemia (high levels of uric acid in the blood) by decreasing uric acid production, enhancing its excretion, and mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation.
Gastric Ulcers:
Studies have shown that Chinese sumac fruit extracts can help prevent indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in mice by improving oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Sumac is rich in phenolic compounds like gallic acid and quercetin, which contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Other Traditional Uses:
In addition to its medicinal uses, Chinese sumac fruits are also used as a vegetable, a natural souring agent, and a herb.
Scientific Evidence and Research:
Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Studies have shown that sumac fruit extract can reduce inflammatory reactions and prevent the development of numerous inflammation-associated disorders.
Antioxidant Activity:
Sumac is known for its strong antioxidant properties, which can help combat oxidative stress and protect against cell damage.
Hyperuricemia Treatment:
Research indicates that Chinese sumac fruit extract can improve hyperuricemia and uric acid nephropathy in mice fed a high-purine diet.
Gastric Ulcer Prevention:
Studies have shown that Chinese sumac fruit extract can prevent indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in mice.
Cardiovascular Health:
Some studies suggest that sumac powder can help reduce cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular health.
Blood Sugar Control:
Sumac has been linked to improved blood sugar control, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Sumac is a berry with a tart flavor. Add it to savory dishes to deepen the flavor. Sumac leaves are distinctively spirally arranged and typically compound, although certain species feature simple leaves. The diminutive flowers consist of five petals and are clustered in dense panicles or spikes.

Rich in antioxidants. Sumac contains a wide array of chemical compounds with potent antioxidant activity, including tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids . Antioxidants work to protect your cells from damage and reduce oxidative stress within the body.