Schisandra has been regarded and treasured by the Chinese Empire as a superior herb for its unparalleled powers to protect health and prolong life. A woody vine full of fruits and fragrant flowers, it is native to the moist, temperate forests of northern China, Korea, Japan, and the Russian Far East. Schisandra is known as “wu-wei-zi,” the Chinese name for “five flavor berry,” which refers to the five flavors and corresponding elements of traditional Chinese medicine (sweet/earth, sour/wood, bitter/fire, salty/water, and pungent/metal). This unique characteristic makes Schisandra one of the fundamental herbs in Chinese Medicine and is even today highly regarded for its healing powers. For centuries it has been used as a harmonizing tonic, treating diseases of the lungs, liver, kidneys, and heart. It wasn’t until the 1960’s that it finally gained recognition as an adaptogenic herb, thanks to a number of studies which showed significant evidence of its superior, stress-protective effects and its power to increase physical stamina. Thanks to its content of potent antioxidants, these bright red, peppercorn-sized berries support healthy cellular function and stabilize cell membranes, successfully preventing and protecting against environmental damage. Schisandra is a must for mature and sun damaged skin and its anti-inflammatory and sedative powers offer relief for hyper-reactive, stressed, and sensitive skin. Featured in: The Blue Cocoon
