Schisandra
Schisandra
- In stock, ready to ship
Origin:
China
Native to northern China and the Russian Far East. A key herb in traditional Chinese medicine.
Country of Origin may differ from what is shown above.
Schisandra berries (Schisandra chinensis), known as Wu Wei Zi or "five flavour berry" in Traditional Chinese Medicine, are one of the most remarkable herbs you will taste. Each berry contains all five fundamental flavours: sour, sweet, bitter, pungent, and salty. Classified as a "superior" herb in TCM for over 2,000 years, schisandra is traditionally used as an adaptogen to help the body cope with stress and support overall vitality.
Key Benefits
- Five flavours in one berry: A truly unique tasting experience. The sour skin, sweet flesh, bitter and pungent seeds, and salty overall character correspond to the five organ systems in TCM.
- Adaptogenic tradition: Traditionally used to help the body adapt to physical and mental stress, supporting energy and endurance without overstimulation.
- Liver support: Traditionally valued in Chinese herbal medicine for supporting healthy liver function. Schisandra lignans have been the subject of extensive modern research.
- Cognitive support: Traditionally used to support mental clarity, focus, and memory. Nanai hunters in Siberia relied on schisandra for endurance during long expeditions.
- Rich in lignans: Contains schisandrin, gomisin A, and other bioactive lignans unique to the Schisandra genus.
Schisandra tea (decoction): Add 1 tablespoon of dried schisandra berries to 500 ml of water. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer on low heat with a lid for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain and serve. The resulting tea is tart and ruby-coloured, similar to cranberry.
Blending ideas: The tartness pairs well with Ginger Root for warmth, or with Licorice Root to soften the flavour and add natural sweetness. For a traditional adaptogenic blend, combine with Ashwagandha.
Tip: Lightly crack a few berries before brewing to help release the compounds locked in the seeds. Sweeten with honey if the tart-bitter profile is too strong at first.
In Korea, schisandra is the base for Omija-cha, a popular chilled fruit tea served in summer and traditionally garnished with pine nuts. The berry was first recorded in the Shennong Bencaojing over 2,000 years ago, where it was said to "prolong the years of life without aging."
Schisandra is not classified as toxic to dogs or cats, though limited data exists. As with any herb, keep out of reach of pets and consult a veterinarian before giving to animals.
May interact with medications processed by the liver (CYP450 substrates). Not recommended during pregnancy. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication.
Our shipping costs are a flat rate, meaning you can add any amount of products to your order and you will pay the same.
Regular Post - $10.95
Express Post - $12.95
Dispatch days: Monday to Thursday.
We send Australia wide.
*Subject to actual conditions. Find out more on our Delivery information page.
We want you to be thrilled with your purchase from us. If you are not satisfied with an item and need to return it, we're here to help.
Find out more about our Returns & Refunds.
