Schizandra
Shisandraceae
Reviewed by The Sarv Health Team · Our editorial process
Schizandra is an herb that offers multiple health benefits. It supports the adrenal glands, helping address symptoms like fatigue, body aches, hair loss, and digestive issues. The herb has adaptogenic properties, meaning it normalizes bodily functions, raising what's low and lowering what's high. It has also been historically used to promote sleep due to its effects on neurotransmitters, providing a sense of well-being and calming the spirit through the heart, potentially alleviating symptoms like insomnia. Furthermore, Schizandra has liver-protective capabilities similar to herbs like milk thistle. Overall, it's considered safe for oral consumption.
Medicinal Uses
Schizandra is particularly beneficial for the adrenal glands, especially in cases of hypofunction leading to symptoms like unrelieved fatigue, body aches, light-headedness, loss of body hair, and digestive issues. Regular intake of schizandra can nourish and support adrenal health. Known in Chinese medicine as the "five-flavored seed" for its complex taste profile, schizandra embodies the concept of balance and wholeness in traditional herbal practices.
The term "adaptogenic," coined in the late 1950s by Russian holistic doctor I.I. Brekhman and his colleague I.V. Dardymov, aptly describes schizandra's capacity to normalize bodily functions, lowering what's high and raising what's low, thereby restoring equilibrium.
Schizandra has a long history of use as a sleep aid and sedative, with modern studies confirming its direct impact on neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, enhancing overall well-being and promoting sedation. In Chinese medicine, it's also revered for its ability to calm the Shen or spirit, facilitating a harmonious state of body, mind, and heart, and potentially reducing symptoms of adrenal fatigue, including insomnia.
Additionally, schizandra offers liver protection, working similarly to herbs like milk thistle and licorice root to directly support liver cells.
Generally, schizandra is considered safe for oral consumption, making it a versatile and beneficial herb for various health concerns.
Benefits
supports adrenal glands, helps promotes sleep, protect the liver
How to Use & Dosage
Take 30 drops, 1 to 3 times per day.
Add 2 teaspoons to a cup, simmer covered for 10 to 15 minutes. Consume 1 to 3 cups per day.
More Info
Frequently asked questions
What is Schizandra used for?
Schizandra is particularly beneficial for the adrenal glands, especially in cases of hypofunction leading to symptoms like unrelieved fatigue, body aches, light-headedness, loss of body hair, and digestive issues. Regular intake of schizandra can nourish and support adrenal health. Known in Chinese medicine as the "five-flavored seed" for its complex taste profile, schizandra embodies the concept of balance and wholeness in traditional herbal practices.
What are the benefits of Schizandra?
supports adrenal glands, helps promotes sleep, protect the liver
How do you take Schizandra?
Common preparations include tincture, decoction. See the dosage guidance above, and consult a qualified practitioner for amounts suited to you.
This information is for general wellness and educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herb — especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.