Plant Profile: Schizandra

Schizandra

(Schizandra chinensis)

Family: SCHIZANDRACEAE

Energetics: Warming. Drying. 

Taste: Sour. Pungent. Bitter. Salty. 

Tissue States: 

Systems Affected: Adrenals. Brain. Heart. Stomach. Central Nervous System. 

Parts Used: Berries 

Key Components: Volatile oils. Lignans. Triterpenoids. Acids. Saccharides. Sitosterol. Tannins. Resin. Minerals. Vitamin C. Vitamin E. 

Preparations & dosage: Decoction: Tincture: 

Actions: 

Foundational: Astringent. Bitter. Stimulant.
Primary: Alterative. Adaptogen. 
Secondary: Tonic.

Uses: 

Hypofunctioning adrenal glands. Often marked by exhaustion that doesn't resolve with sleep, body aches, light-headedness, digestive problems and loss of body hair. 

Chinese call it the 5 flavor berry because it actually has all 5 flavors (sweet, salty, bitter, sour and acrid)

Helps to promote sleep. Schizandra has a direct effect on GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), dopamine and serotonin levels. 

Works similarly to milk thistle and licorice root on the liver and is known to have a nourishing and protective effect on the cells of the liver. 

Combines well with: 

Identifying: 

Growing: Likes soil that is moist and slightly acidic. Prefers full shade. Grows in zones 4-10. 

Harvesting:

Contraindications: 

Sources: 

The Herbal Apothecary: JJ Pursell. Pg 157-158

Studies:


This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor is it intended to replace medical advice. For educational purposes only.