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Common name: Wu-wei-zi

Parts used and where grown: Schisandra is a woody vine with numerous clusters of tiny, bright red berries. It is distributed throughout northern and northeast China and the adjacent regions of Russia and Korea.1 The fully ripe, sun-dried fruit is used medicinally. It is purported to have sour, sweet, salty, hot, and bitter tastes. This unusual combination of flavors is reflected in schisandras Chinese name wu-wei-zi, meaning five taste fruit.

In what conditions might schisandra be supportive?

chemotherapy support
common cold/sore throat

fatigue
hepatitis
liver support

stress


Historical or traditional use: The classical treatise on Chinese herbal medicine, the Shen Nung Pen Tsao Ching, describes schisandra as a high-grade herbal drug useful for a wide variety of medical conditionsespecially as a kidney tonic and lung astringent. Additionally, other textbooks on traditional Chinese medicine note that schisandra is useful for coughs, night sweats, insomnia, thirst, and physical exhaustion.2

Active constituents: Schisandra contains a number of compounds, including essential oils, numerous acids, and lignans. Lignans (schizandrin, deoxyschizandrin, gomisins, and pregomisin) are found in the seeds of the fruit and have a number of medicinal actions. Modern Chinese research suggests that lignans regenerate liver tissue damaged by harmful influences such as viral hepatitis and alcohol. Lignans lower blood levels of serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), a marker for infective hepatitis and other liver disorders.

Schisandra fruit may also have an adaptogenic action, much like the herb ginseng, but with weaker effects. Laboratory work suggests that schisandra may improve work performance, build strength, and help to reduce fatigue.3

How much should I take ? A daily range of schisandra fruit is from 1-6 grams per day. The tincture, in the amount of 2-4 ml three times per day, can also be used.

Are there any side effects or interactions? Side effects involving schisandra are uncommon but may include abdominal upset, decreased appetite, and skin rash.

References:

1. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics, 2d ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1996, 469-72.
2. Shu HY. Oriental Materia Medica: A Concise Guide. Palos Verdes, CA: Oriental Healing Arts Press, 1986, 624-5.
3. Foster S, Chongxi Y. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 146-52.