Schisandra

Schisandra, also known as Wu Wei Zi, comes from the berry of the plant Schisandra chinensis. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years and is often called the “five-flavor fruit” because each berry contains all five traditional tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent. Schisandra grows on woody vines in forests of Northern China, Korea, and Russia. The berries are small, bright red, and typically dried before use because of their strong, sour taste.

Schisandra berries contain lignans, polysaccharides, and essential oils, compounds believed to support liver function, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity and endurance. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is thought to preserve vital energy (qi), astringe essence, and nourish the kidneys and lungs.

The berry is the main part used in medicine; it's usually dried, powdered, or extracted into pills, tinctures, and teas. In some preparations, the seeds are separated and ground because they contain high levels of liver-protective lignans (natural plant compounds that act like antioxidants).

Traditionally, Schisandra is used to support liver health, improve stamina, sharpen focus, strengthen the lungs, and stabilize emotions and sleep. It is also believed to prevent fatigue, protect against aging, and astringe fluids, making it useful for conditions like chronic coughs, night sweating, or loose stools.

Modern studies suggest that Schisandra’s active compounds may enhance liver detoxification, improve cognitive performance, reduce stress hormones, and support endurance and physical performance. It is being researched for potential benefits in fatty liver disease, stress-related disorders, and metabolic health.

Fun Facts:

- The name “five-flavor fruit” comes from its unique combination of tastes, each said to correspond to a different organ system in TCM.

- Schisandra berries were historically used by hunters in Northern China to improve night vision and increase physical stamina during long journeys.

- In TCM formulas, Schisandra is often used to “hold things in” such as qi, sweat, and essence, making it a key herb for preserving energy and vitality.