Schisandra berry powder is derived from the dried fruit of the Schisandra chinensis plant, a woody vine native to northeastern China, Russia, and Korea. Revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for centuries, it’s often called the “five-flavor fruit” (wu wei zi) because it uniquely embodies sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent tastes.
In TCM, Schisandra is considered a superior herb, believed to promote overall well-being, increase vitality, and support various bodily functions, particularly the liver, kidneys, and lungs. It’s classified as an adaptogen, a natural substance that helps the body resist physical, environmental, and emotional stressors and restore balance.
- Reduces Stress: Schisandra is well-known as an adaptogen, helping the body resist physical, environmental, and emotional stressors. It helps regulate the body’s stress response by influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
- Lowers Cortisol Levels: Studies suggest that Schisandra can reduce levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone.
- Balances Neurotransmitters: It may help control stress-induced changes in serotonin and adrenaline levels.
- Combats Adrenal Fatigue: By supporting the adrenal glands, Schisandra may help alleviate fatigue associated with chronic stress.
- Improves Mood and Reduces Anxiety: Research indicates that Schisandra can have anti-anxiety and mood-boosting effects, potentially by modulating stress levels.
- Liver Protection: Schisandra has been shown to protect the liver from damage caused by toxins.
- Supports Liver Function: It can stimulate enzymes in the liver and promote liver cell growth, potentially improving overall liver function.
- May Help with Hepatitis: Studies suggest that Schisandra extract can lower levels of liver enzymes (like SGPT) that indicate liver damage in people with hepatitis.
- Enhances Glutathione Production: Schisandra may help increase the production of glutathione, a crucial antioxidant for liver detoxification.
- Increases Energy Levels: Many users report increased energy and reduced fatigue with Schisandra consumption.
- Improves Physical Endurance: It may enhance physical performance and endurance.
- Enhances Coordination: Some research suggests improved coordination with Schisandra intake.
- Improves Mental Performance: Studies indicate that Schisandra can improve concentration, attention, and speed of thinking.
- May Enhance Memory: Traditionally used to boost memory and cognitive function.
- Neuroprotective Effects: Research suggests potential neuroprotective properties.
- May Benefit Alzheimer’s Disease: One study found that Schisandrin B, a compound in Schisandra, may help block the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are associated with Alzheimer’s.
- Increases Blood Flow to the Brain: By boosting nitric oxide production, Schisandra may improve blood circulation to the brain, supporting cognitive health.
- Stimulates the Immune System: Schisandra is believed to have immune-modulating effects.
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Its high antioxidant content helps fight free radical damage and lower inflammatory responses.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Schisandra is packed with powerful antioxidants that combat free radicals, which contribute to aging. It may protect the skin from environmental stress, toxins, and UV damage, potentially reducing the appearance of fine lines and helping the skin retain moisture and elasticity.
- Supports Cellular Function: Traditionally known to maintain vitality and support healthy cellular function.
- May help regulate hormones: Potentially beneficial for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood instability.
- Supports Digestive Health: Traditionally used for digestive issues.
- May Help Regulate Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure: Some traditional uses include normalizing blood sugar and blood pressure levels.
- Supports Respiratory Health: Traditionally used for coughs and asthma.
- May Improve Vision: Early research suggests potential benefits for nearsightedness when applied topically, though more research is needed.
- Aphrodisiac Properties: May enhance libido by promoting nitric oxide production and improving blood flow.
Nutritional Value
The nutritional profile of Schisandra berry powder can vary slightly depending on the specific product and processing methods. However, generally, per 100g of organic Schisandra berry powder, you can expect approximately:
- Energy: 1227-1276 kJ / 293-306 kcal
Fat: 4.3-11g - Saturated Fat: 0.56-2.0g (Some sources indicate 0g per serving)
- Carbohydrates: 29.78-45.1g
- Sugars: 3-11.1g
- Fiber: 0-2.7g
- Protein: 1.2-12.38g
- Salt: <0.01-0.03g
- Other potentially present nutrients: Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and various minerals (though often in smaller quantities).
It’s important to note that typical serving sizes for Schisandra berry powder are much smaller (e.g., 1 teaspoon or a couple of scoops), so the actual nutrient intake per serving will be significantly lower. Schisandra berries are also rich in bioactive compounds called lignans, including schisandrin, deoxyschisandrin, and schisantherin, which are believed to be responsible for many of its health benefits.
Incorporating Schisandra berry powder into your diet can be a way to harness its potential adaptogenic and antioxidant properties. It’s often added to smoothies, teas, juices, and other recipes.