Schisandra Berry

Schisandra Berry is an elite herb used since antiquity. Also known as the “five flavour fruit” or the “quintessence of tonic herbs” by Taoist masters.

Uses:

Tonic /Adaptogenic
Respiratory health
Increases bodily vitality
Neuroprotective
Beautifying tonic

History

Schisandra Berry is documented in early Chinese medical texts as a superior herb, capable of promoting overall well-being and enhancing bodily vitality. This rare berry was first documented in 2697 BCE - Schisandra was classified as superior by Pen-Tsao in the classic Yellow Emperor's Study of Inner Medicine.

Many stories are told of hunting tribes of Northern China who would take supplies of the dried berries whenever they went on long hunting trips during cold weather. Eating Schisandra berries helped them to stoke their internal fires and renew their waning strength. This potent medicine has also been used for centuries by monks to nourish their overall well-being.

Schisandra & Taoism

Schisandra is the only herb known to be perfectly Yin-Yang balanced, to contain all three Treasures (Jing, Qi, and Shen), to nurture all five Elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water), and to enter all twelve energy channels (meridians) of the human body. For this reason, it is used in the Taoist practice known as the “foundation period.” This is the first 100 days of practice, which includes exercises, meditation, and the consumption of tonic herbs. During the 100-day foundation period, it is tradition to consume Schisandra berries every day - a monk could miss a day or they will have to start over. The results of this practice include greater clarity, a stronger body, overt changes to skin and hair, brightening of the eyes, and the laying of the permanent foundation of the Three Treasures.

Ailments Treated

Schisandra has long been used for a wide variety of ailments, including; respiratory diseases, asthma, insomnia, kidney problems, and diarrhea. Also classed as a herbal adaptogen, this berry can help combat fatigue under physical stress and increase endurance.

Packed with antioxidants, including key vitamins C and E, Schisandra's strong astringent qualities enable the skin to hold in moisture for more fullness.

Brain Health

Schisandrins A, B, and C as well as schisandrol is the major bioactive chemical compounds found in Schisandra berries. Schisandrin B can have a beneficial effect on Alzheimer’s disease because of its ability to block the formation of excess amyloid beta peptides in the brain - one of the components responsible for forming amyloid plaque found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Schisandrin B may also help against Parkinson’s disease. This is due to its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective effect upon microglial cells in the brain. Schisandrin C is effective against liver damage in people with both acute and chronic hepatitis.