Schizandra is known to decrease liver enzymes rapidly in various forms of hepatitis. In test on mice it protected liver cells from toxins and viruses, and promoted liver protein synthesis. It has tonic, sedative and astringent properties.
It is also acknowledged as beneficial in cases of memory loss, insomnia, and vision impairment. Chinese herbalists make a decoction of the dried berries, though they are sometimes eaten. The herb is generally taken as part of a specific formula.
The dried fruits are derived from an aromatic, woody vine that grows in China and north-east Asia. It is a member of the Magnolia family. The fruits are sour tasting, subsequently stimulating bile production.
The plant contains lignans called schizandrins; also fatty oil, essential oil and mucilage.
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