Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) is a small red berry from north-east China, known in Taoist herbalism as the beauty berry. It's traditionally used to support radiant skin, healthy liver function, a healthy stress response, focus and stamina. Most people take it as a powder, a small spoonful a day in warm water, juice or tea.
What is Schisandra?
Schisandra is called wu wei zi in Chinese, the five-flavour fruit, because it holds all five tastes: sour, sweet, salty, bitter and pungent. In Chinese medicine each taste corresponds to an organ system, so Schisandra is one of the rare herbs said to enter all five, the Liver, Heart, Spleen, Lungs and Kidneys. That breadth is why it has been prized as a longevity tonic for centuries, and why Taoist herbalists see it as nourishing all Three Treasures, Jing, Qi and Shen.
The benefits of Schisandra
1. Skin and beauty from within
Schisandra's best-known nickname is the beauty berry. It's traditionally used in Chinese medicine to support the complexion and nourish the skin from within. Chinese medicine links clear, radiant skin to healthy Liver function and well-nourished Blood, which is where Schisandra does much of its work. It pairs well with Tremella, the beauty mushroom, and you can find both in our herbs for skin and beauty.
2. Liver support
Schisandra is one of the classic herbs traditionally used to support healthy liver function. In Chinese medicine the Liver keeps Qi and Blood moving smoothly through the body, and when it's under strain it tends to show up as irritability, tension and tired-looking skin.
3. A healthy stress response and less fatigue
As an adaptogen, Schisandra is traditionally used to support a healthy stress response and relieve fatigue. It has a long history of use by hunters in north-east China and Russia's Far East, who took the dried berries on long trips to keep going with less food and rest.
4. Focus and a settled mind
In Taoist herbalism, Schisandra calms and anchors the Shen, the spirit, while also sharpening the mind. That combination of calm and alert is why many people find it useful for long days of work or study.
5. Stamina and vitality
Schisandra is traditionally used to tonify Kidney Yin and support physical endurance and stamina. In Chinese medicine it's also valued for supporting sexual vitality in both men and women, as part of nourishing the deep reserves of Jing.
How to take Schisandra
Schisandra is easiest to take as a concentrated extract powder.
- Measure: adults, start with ยผ teaspoon (600mg), the label serving, once a day. Always follow the directions on the label.
- Mix: stir it into about 250ml of warm water and drink straight away. It's tangy and sour, so many people add honey, or mix it into juice, a berry smoothie or a cup of tea.
- Repeat: take it every day. Most people take it in the morning, but any time of day works.
Find our extract here: Schisandra Berry Powder.
100 Days of Schisandra
The traditional Taoist prescription is to take Schisandra every day for 100 days and see what changes. Tonic herbs work through steady use, and 100 days gives the berry time to show what it can do for your skin, energy and mood. We've written an e-book to guide you through it: 100 Days of Schisandra.
Schisandra FAQs
How long does Schisandra take to work?
Some people notice a difference in energy or mood within a couple of weeks, but the classic advice is to give it at least three months of daily use, which is where the 100-day practice comes from. Skin changes in particular build slowly.
Can I take Schisandra every day?
Yes. Schisandra is a tonic herb, made for daily use over the long term. Follow the serving size on the label.
What does Schisandra taste like?
Mostly sour and tangy, with salty, bitter and slightly sweet notes underneath. Some people find it odd at first but quickly develop a taste for it. It works well with citrus, berries and honey.
Can I use Schisandra on my skin?
Yes, many people mix it into masks and creams as well as taking it daily. Read our article on using Tremella, Schisandra and MSM topically.
Who shouldn't take Schisandra?
Avoid it during pregnancy, and check with your healthcare practitioner first if you're breastfeeding, have a health condition or take prescription medication, as Schisandra can interact with some medicines. If you have epilepsy or high blood pressure, also speak to your practitioner before starting.
By Ainsley Rose, Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy), NHAA member.
