Schisandra

Schisandra, also called Chinese Schisandra, is a vine that is native to the forests of Northern China and the Russian Far East. It produces a fruit called magnolia, or five-flavor-fruit, which contain lignans, a substance with a wide range of bioactivity. Schisandra is known for its medicinal properties, which can be referenced back to medical treatises of Chinese doctors as early as 250 years BC. It has been shown to possess anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-tumor, and tonic properties. It may be used to fight infections, reduce weakness (due to infection), boost heart health, help with low blood pressure, improve performance, boost digestive health, and help improve skeletal and smooth muscle weakness. Other uses of Schisandra include improve urinary system, enhance respiratory system, activate metabolism of carbohydrates, accelerate the burning of fat, and alleviate stress. It may also be used to treat depression, tuberculosis, anemia, bronchial asthma, bronchitis, sexual dysfunction, as well as stomach, kidney and liver conditions.