Title: Schisandra: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and Interactions
Headings: Health Benefits of Schisandra
Health Benefits of Schisandra
Can the traditional Chinese herb treat hypertension and liver injury?
Health Benefits
Asthma
High Blood Pressure
Liver Injury
Fatigue
Possible Side Effects
Drug Interactions
Dosage and Preparation
What to Look For
Other Questions
How do I use Traditional Chinese Medicine safely?

Content: Learn about our Medical Review Board
Lana Butner, ND, LAc
on February 21, 2021
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Table of Contents
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Table of Contents
Health Benefits
Fatigue
Possible Side Effects
Dosage and Preparation
What to Look For
Other Questions
Schisandra ( Schisandra chinensis) is a plant whose deep red berries have long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. Schisandra is a deciduous climbing vine native to China and Russia that thrives in almost all types of soils. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), schisandra is considered an "adaptogen," meaning a plant or herb that balances the body's functions and maintains homeostasis. The berry itself is often called "five-flavor berry" because it possesses all five of the basic flavors of Chinese herbal medicine: salty, sweet, sour, spicy, and bitter. Having these flavors means that it can benefit all five yin organs: the liver, lungs, heart, kidneys, and spleen. Schisandra berries are referred to as wu wei zi in traditional Chinese medicine and omicha in Korea. In the West, the plant is better known as magnolia vine, even though it is not closely related to true magnolias. Health Benefits
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, schisandra is revered for its anti-aging properties and is used to promote physical, emotional, and even sexual stamina.