One of the top herbs in the Taoist system, schisandra is known for its ability to harmonise the flow of Qi through the five organ systems of the human body. It is especially revered for its effects on the Kidney and Liver organ systems. 

This nourishing highly adaptive herb helps balance the nervous system, improves brain function, elevates immunity, and through its effects on the overall harmony of the body, assists those who consume it in remaining youthful, both in appearance and physiology. 

In folk herbalism, it is said that if taken for 100 days consecutively, schisandra purifies the Blood, brings sharpness to the mind, optimises memory, rejuvenates and astringes Kidney Essence (Jing), and supports reproductive function in both men and women. Schisandra also supports the Lung Qi, and may assist in harmonising Lung dysfunction.

In China, schisandra is known as wu wei zi, a name which translates to “five-taste fruit,” named after the incredible flavour profile of the berry that has all five tastes: salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and pungent. Each taste/flavour corresponds to a major organ system within the body, and thus why schisandra is known for its capacity to influence/enter all five major organ systems of the body: the Liver, Lungs, Kidneys, Heart, and Spleen. This is why it is considered one of the ultimate herbs in Taoism; schisandra is able to regulate the entire system, nourish all organs, and thus protect all Three Treasures of the body (Jing, Qi and Shen).

Also known as a ‘beauty berry’ of the Orient, schisandra was used by ancient Chinese royalty to preserve youthfulness, enhance physical radiance, boost desire, and as a potent reproductive tonic. Schisandra has an excellent capacity to regenerative Water Qi in the Kidneys, thus building primary essence and rejuvenating sexual fluids. For our intention to age with grace, with a twinkle in the eye and our unique beauty radiating from within, we can't think of a herb that has our backs (and organs) more than schisandra does.

Traditionally used in Chinese medicine to:

• Support a healthy stress response in the body 
• Relieve weariness/tiredness/fatigue/feeling of weakness
• Enrich/nourish/fortify/strengthen the Kidneys

Whatever feels best for you! You can enjoy Schisandra any time throughout your day.

Tonic herbs are generally warming, building, and nourishing. In the context of health optimisation and the Taoist tradition, tonic herbs are not directly used to treat individual symptoms, but instead to create harmony and strength within the system as a whole.

In this regard, we generally only recommend our Reishi and Eucommia Bark during pregnancy as there is quite a lot of empirical use of these herbs in pregnancy in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Taoist Tonic Herbalism. 

To learn more about the tonic herbs best to take during pregnancy, read this article

As pregnancy is a very individual journey, we recommend checking in with your health care provider when starting on any new herbs or supplements as they will have a more comprehensive scope of your medical history.