Northeast, China
Schisandra Chinensis, or Omija Berry, is a profound adaptogen known in the far east as the "five-flavor fruit." Having long been used in Traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years, it remains relatively unknown here in the west. Its active compound, schizandrin, has demonstrated in molecular studies (in mice) to enhance hepatoprotection (liver support), elicit glutathione response to cellular stressors, protect the skin from photoaging, and bolster adrenal function which resulted in a sustained and improved response to stress. (Again, in mice) We prefer to steep this berry in water for 18 hours to extract its healthful compounds and to better control its pungent flavor.
