History
This plant is sometimes referred to as Chinese Magnolia Vine or Five Flavored Fruit. The five distinct flavors found in the berry correspond to the five phases or Elements of Traditional Chinese Medicine: Sour (Wood), Bitter (Fire), Sweet (Earth), Acrid (Metal) and Salty (Water). Hence it's name Wu Wei Zi in Chinese. It is considered a Harmonizing Tonic or "King" remedy in Chinese Medicine because of its well balanced energetic nature. Other Herbs in this category include, but are not limited to: Licorice, Dong Quai, Panax Ginseng, Jujube Dates, and Bupleurum. It is included in every classic text on Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been used to support a healthy functioning endocrine system, digestive system, and to support normal liver function as well as a convalescent tonic herb when the kidney system is involved.
Function
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.
Uses of Schisandra
This information in our Herbal Reference Guide is intended only as a general reference for further exploration, and is not a replacement for professional health advice. This content does not provide dosage information, format recommendations, toxicity levels, or possible interactions with prescription drugs. Accordingly, this information should be used only under the direct supervision of a qualified health practitioner such as a naturopathic physician.
