Schisandra

Native to East Asia, and also lso known as Magnolia Vine; Schisandra is a genus of shrub commonly grown in gardens. It is a hardy deciduous climber which thrives in virtually any soil.

Uses: Has a protective effect on the liver and an immunomodulting effect. Suggested For: anti-oxidant resist infections increase skin health combat insomnia

The dried fruit is used medicinally. The berries of S. chinensis are given the name wu wei zi in Chinese, which translates as "five flavor fruit, possessing all five basic flavors in Chinese herbal medicine: salty, sweet, sour, pungent (spicy), and bitter. In traditional Chinese medicine it is used to resist infections, increase skin health, and combat insomnia, coughing, and thirst.

Modern research suggests that schisandra and other lignans have a protective effect on the liver and an immunomodulting effect. Two human trials (one double-blind and the other preliminary) have shown that schisandra may help people with chronic viral hepatitis. Schisandra lignans appear to protect the liver by activating the enzymes that produce glutathione.

Over 19 species of the genus are said to be used in Chinese medicine, mostly as sedatives and tonics.