Schisandra

Description

Schisandra (also known as Schizandra) has been used historically by the Chinese to help protect against respiratory conditions. In addition to having the soothing and calming effect on the respiratory system, it also has a calming effect on the nervous system. Many believe that Schisandra also has adaptogenic action, similar to that of ginseng, but with weaker effects.

Origin(s): China. See our Quality Assurance Testing protocol.

Latin Name(s): Schisandra chinensis

Also known as: Wu wei zi, schizandra, five flavor berry, fructus schisandra.

Plant Part(s) Used: Berry.

Appearance: Reddish brown.

Aroma: Fruity.

Taste: Slightly sweet, pungent, bitter.

GMO Status: Non-GMO.

Allergen: None.

Additives: Free of any additives or preservatives.

Applications / Preparations: Can be put into capsules, teas, tonics, juice, teas, wines, cordials, syrups or infused as an herbal extract.

Storage: Store in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.

Shelf Life: It is very difficult to pin down an exact expiration date for most single herbs as they do not really expire, they lose potency or strength over time but will still have value. Unlike synthetic material or drugs, herbs can contain many constituents that contribute to their medicinal effects. Even if when we know what the active constituents are, there are often many of them in a single herb, each with different rates of degradation. Some herbs lose their effect more easily. Other herbs that possess more stable compounds such as alkaloids or steroids will last much longer.

A huge part of the degradation rate of herbs depends also on the storage conditions of the herb, & even on the quality of the herb before storage – how it was grown, harvested, dried & processed. If the product is left in hot places or open to sunlight then it will degrade much quicker than if it was stored in cool, dry place & sealed tightly.

A good rule of thumb is that herbs should be stored no longer than 2-3 years but many herbs will have great strength much longer than that. To determine if a an herb is still good you can check the appearance & aroma. Herbs that are no longer acceptable will have lost much of its vibrant color & will instead appear dull & faded. The bigger key though is to smell the raw materials to see if the potent aroma is still present.

Note: Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before taking with medications. Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Ask our Certified Master Herbalist for assistance.