Schisandra Berries

Also Known As – Schizandra chinesis

Certified Organic - China

Overview - Schizandra is a woody vine native to China. It can reach a height of 25 feet. There are both male and female plants. Flowers are white to pink, and in the fall the vine produces clusters of red berries. The berries taste sweet, sour, hot, salty and bitter and is known as wu wei zi, or five-flavored herb.

Medicinal Uses –Schisandra berries provide powerful antioxidant protection, particularly from free radicals and other toxins in the environment that may cause cellular damage. Regarded as a popular adaptogenic agent, schisandra berries are unique in that they hold a remarkable blend of five distinct flavor properties collectively serving to promote overall health and vitality. Namely, bitter, sweet, sour, salty and hot. Schisandra berries function to enhance the body's natural resistance and adaptation to stressful influences, support mental endurance and promote overall metabolic efficiency. Much of the clinical research has focused on the effects of Schisandra on liver function, especially its effect on the production of various liver detoxifying enzymes as well as the antioxidant activity of the extract. More research is needed to fully understand the exact biochemical activity of this tremendous plant.

Internally, Schizandra can be taken for anxiety, stress and weakness. It is also very beneficial for premenstrual problems, motion sickness and aging problems. It can stabilize blood sugar and protect against radiation and infections. It can lower cholesterol and stimulate RNA-DNA molecules to build cells. This herb can boost the immune system to help healing after surgeries. Externally, Schisandra is being used to treat hives and other problems of the skin like eczema in Chinese medicine.

• It is used in Chinese medicine to treat hepatitis, insomnia and mental illness. It is an adaptogen herb, which means that it changes its function to normalize the functions of the body. It is thought to increase stamina and improve mental abilities. It increases nerve responses and may be helpful to relieve depression. It has been proven to help irritability and forgetfulness. It is beneficial to the liver and kidneys. It helps to relieve night sweats, urinary frequency and excessive thirst.
• Schizandra can be used as an expectorant and cough suppressant. It stimulates breathing and dilates blood vessels to improve circulation and heart function. It can strengthen uterine contractions during labor, aid the absorption of nutrients and improve eyesight. It has been used to tone the sexual organs for both men and women. It increases the production of fluids and increases libido.

Herbs to Combine/Supplement - Schizandra is often combined with other herbs like Korean ginseng in Chinese medicine to make an individualized treatment.

Parts Used - The fruit is taken medicinally.

Precautions - Reactions to schizandra are rare, but side effects may include rash, stomach upset, heartburn and lack of appetite. This herb should not be taken by pregnant women and people with epilepsy or high blood pressure.

Suggested Preparation and Dosage - Eat 1 to 6 grams of fruit per day.

• If taking a tincture, 2 to 4 ml is taken three times per day.
• Prepare a decoction by boiling 5 grams of crushed berries in 100 ml of water. This is enough for three doses, which should be taken over the course of 24 hours.
• Herbal tea is made by steeping 1 to 6 grams of dried berries in 1 to 3 cups of boiling water.
• Fresh berries can be eaten as a general tonic.

Disclaimer - The information presented herein by Mountain Maus’ Remedies is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.