Plant of the Month-June

Schisandra - Schisandra chinensis

I have recently developed a fascination with and consequent passionate desire to learn all I can about adaptogens – a term appropriated to herbs that increase a person’s ability to maintain optimal health and balance in the face of physical and emotional stress.  They do this by nourishing the root system of the body, the neuroendocrine system, thus providing an overall enhanced state of vitality.  In fact, research shows that they actually normalize, enhance and protect all systems of the body.

Sounds good, doesn’t it?  It’s nothing new to traditional healing systems throughout the world.  Traditional healing paradigms such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda have used adaptogenic herbs for centuries to maintain optimal wellbeing on a physical, emotional and spiritual level.  Is that not something that most humans desire and strive for?

There are many herbs that are considered adaptogens, and even three different classes of them (primary, secondary and companions) – a whole world to explore. Schisandra is one of my favorites for a number of reasons, including its long history of medicinal use in China, Japan, Korea, Tibet and Russia and the incredible array of beneficial actions on so many different body systems.  In TCM, it is called Wu Wei Zi meaning “five-flavor berry”, because it does seem to taste a little bit salty, sweet, bitter, pungent, and sour. This flavor mosaic indicates that it has a positive effect on Qi on five visceral organ systems of the body.  In other words, a broad range of benefits.

It is the seeds and berries that are used medicinally, though much of the modern research has focused on the seed extract and this is what is included in the Russian pharmacopoeia.  It is utilized largely as an anti-fatigue remedy, often just chewing on a handful of the whole berries (seeds and all).  It is well noted throughout history and supported by modern research that Schisandra balances and strengthens the entire body, is highly antioxidant, protects the liver, improves eyesight, is cardio-protective, modulates the immune system and protects DNA from damage.  One of the amazing attributes of Schisandra (and many other adaptogenic herbs) is that it has a stimulatory effect on the central nervous system (think athletic and mental/cognitive performance) without having an excitatory effect or response like caffeine or amphetamines.

Schisandra’s medicinal benefits can be enjoyed in a many forms.  I prefer tea of the whole berry (a bit sour!) or just chewing on the berries as those in Asia have done for centuries. It is also available in tincture form as well as powdered in capsule.  Keep in mind that it is a tonic, which means the benefits are best seen with consistent use.

Don’t forget that although Schisandra (and other adaptogenic botanicals) can greatly benefit one’s health and enhance wellbeing, they do not replace the need for healthful diet, lifestyle and quality sleep.  They are not designed by nature to simply improve health with no other lifestyle and dietary changes, rather they are included in a therapeutic protocol that enhance and potentizes the effects of other modalities.

Kiwi Strawberry Schisandra Cooler

2 quarts of water (still or carbonated)
¼ cup of dried Schisandra berries
1.5 – 2 cups of sliced kiwis and strawberries (you can also personalize with your favorite summer fruit)
2- 4 tablespoons of honey (to taste)
Fresh rose petals or mint

Place schisandra berries in water and allow to steep overnight (sealed or covered), stirring or shaking occasionally. In a large pitcher, place the kiwis and strawberries and honey.  Cover with the Schisandra water, including the berries.  Stir until honey is dissolved.  Add ice and garnish with fresh rose petals or fresh mint. Enjoy!

* Recipe is by Erin Smith and adapted from a traditional Korean beverage called omija hwache.