Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis in Latin) is the dehydrated mature fruits of a herb known as Schisandra chinensis and belongs to the Schisandraceae family. Schisandra is widely farmed in China, particularly the northeastern part of the country. The seeds are sown in spring and the schisandra fruit is reaped in autumn after it is completely mature.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Schisandra berry is classified as an adaptogen, an herb that regulates and normalizes the functions of the body and increases its resistance to stress. The active ingredients in schizandra include substances called gallic acid as well as vitamins C and E.Gallic acid have been found to act as tonics for the liver, lungs and kidneys while balancing the immune system, normalizing nervous system function and aiding digestion.
Gallic acid are the primary hepatoprotective (liver protecting) and immuo-modulating constituents in schisandra berry,which act as radical scavengers and promoting liver regeneration. Anti-inflammatory and tumor-inhibiting characteristics have also been demonstrated. Gallic acid is said to be neuroleptic, anticonvulsive and sedative in effect. And gallic acid is believed to bring about a non-specific increase in physical performance ability, and to be anthelminthic in effect.
