Schisandra chinensis

Description: Oriental medicine has five elemental phases which refer to the sense of taste. These phases are sweet, sour, pungent, bitter, and salty. The fruit of the Schisandra contain all of these phases. This herb is used to help regulate most bodily functions and it also helps in decreasing stress.

Parts Used: Fruit and seeds

Common Use: Schisandra aids in all sorts of biological functions. The liver will benefit in several ways with use of this herb. It can prevent liver damage, aid in liver repair, and simply help the liver function properly. The reasoning behind this claim is because Schisandra serves as an antioxidant since it contains schisandrins. Gastric acid release is regulated by this herb leading to a decrease in digestive problems. According to numerous studies on Schisandra, the findings indicate that it has the ability to quicken reflexes, fight against insomnia and headaches, reverse depression, and increase memory capability.

Origin: China

Active Substances: Schisandrins and Gomisin A (Lignans), B-bisabolene, Vitamin C and Vitamin E.

Standard: 9% Schisandrins

Pharmacology:

Active Properties:

Directions For Use:100 mg extract twice a day. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Processing:

Bio-Enhancing:The bio-enhancing agents are milk thistle extract and dandelion.

Toxicity, Cautions, Contra-Indications:There are no known toxicities. However, those with peptic ulcers, high blood pressure, or epilepsy should avoid taking this herb. Pregnant women should not take this herb either except during labor to aid in uterine contraction. Before taking any herbal product, you are advised to consult with a trained health care professional.

Scientific References:Balch, J. and Balch, P., (1997) Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Garden City Park, New York: Avery Publishing Group. Castleman, M., (1991) The Healing Herbs. Emmaus, Pennsylvania: Rodale Press. Chopra, D., (1993) Alternative Medicine. Fife, Washington: Future Medicine Publishing, Inc. Flynn, R. and Roest, M., (1995) Your Guide to Standardized Herbal Products. Prescott, Arizona: One World Press. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp. Werbach, M., (1993) Nutritional Influences of Illness. Tarzana, California: Third Line Press.

Historical Uses:Schisandra has been uses for everything from high altitude sickness to near-sightedness. Things in between include increased endurance, decreased visual fatigue, and works as an anti-bacterial product.

Analysis:Type standardized extract, Standardization 9% Schisandrins, Character red-brown fine powder, Particle size 100% through 40 mesh, Ash 2.0%-2.5%, Loss on drying 2.64%, Microbiological Content <1000.0/g, Aerobic Plate <10,000/g, Yeasts and molds <100/g.