Herb musings: Schisandra

Schisandra chinensis aka schisandra berry is a gorgeous medicinal thats acts as both an adaptogen (helps adapt to stress) and liver tonic (supports detoxification via the liver). As a western herbalist, this is one that I must admit we pinched from our TCM brothers and I'm sure the traditional chinese use of this fruit may be a little different but it has become a favourite for modern herbalists as the need for both stress and detox support is so relevant currently. The chinese revere Schisandra as a herb for longevity that benefits many of our bodies systems. I think of schiz as being incredibly gentle and tonic-like, unlike some of the other liver herbs which can kick a little hard and be a bit much for those who are very sensitive or who have a lot of liver stagnation going on or who are vitally depleted. Great for burnout and stress where the liver can be burdened by processing excess stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenalin.

I do have a tendency to use this more with women. It can really help with hormonal imbalances where the liver is sluggish and stress is throwing things out. It is a very nurturing herb. It can still be used by men, especially with exhaustion or sensitivities to other stronger liver herbs. It is a tonic herb that can be used safely for long periods of time.

Chemical Constituents - Schisandra berries contain chemical constituents called lignans which activate liver cells to produce glutathione, a very powerful and protective antioxidant compound. It also contains vitamin C and E, phytosterols

How to Use - Schisandra berries can be made into a sweet/sour tea or taken as a herbal tincture. They have a slightly sweet yet slightly sour flavour which is delicate and lovely and pairs nicely with cool aromatics live peppermint or spicy aromatics like ginger.

Energetics -

Sweet, Sour, Warm

Cautions of contraindications -

Schisandra is an incredibly safe herbs, however due to lack of evidence I would reccommend avoiding during pregnacy.