The scientific name of Schisandra is *Schisandra chinensis*, which belongs to the Schisandraceae family. This plant is indigenous to the forests of Northeast Asia, specifically China, Korea, and Russia. The name “Schisandra” is derived from the Greek words “schizo,” meaning split, and “andra,” meaning male, a reference to the plant's fruit consisting of multiple seeds. Historically, Schisandra has been revered in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, where it is commonly referred to as "Wu Wei Zi," which translates to "five-flavour fruit." This title reflects its unique ability to impart all five basic flavours—sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and bitter—making it a multifunctional ingredient in both culinary and medicinal applications.
Schisandra is a deciduous climbing vine that produces small red berries. The fruit is highly valued not only for its multifaceted flavour profile but also for its rich biochemical composition, which includes lignans, vitamins, and essential oils. The herb is recognised primarily for its adaptogenic properties, which means it helps the body adapt to stress and promotes an overall sense of balance. Moreover, Schisandra is known for its tonic effects on various bodily functions, effectively contributing to health and wellness.
- Enhances stress resistance: Schisandra is renowned for its adaptogenic properties, which help the body resist stress and promote general vitality.
- Protects cellular health: It acts as an antioxidant and may protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and contributing to overall cellular health.
- Supports liver detoxification: The herbal ingredient has been shown to support the liver's detoxification processes, aiding in the elimination of toxins from the body.
- Boosts cognitive function: Schisandra may enhance cognitive function, including improved memory and focus, making it a valuable supplement for mental clarity.
- Regulates hormonal balance: Research indicates that schisandra can help regulate hormonal levels, supporting menstrual regularity and easing symptoms of menstrual discomfort in women.
- Improves energy and endurance: The herb is known to boost physical performance and endurance by enhancing energy levels and reducing fatigue.
- Promotes skin health: Schisandra supports skin health by promoting hydration and elasticity, often used in skincare formulations targeting rejuvenation.
- Supports respiratory function: It has traditionally been used to support respiratory health, facilitating ease of breathing and improving lung function.
- Strengthens immune defences: The ingredient boasts antimicrobial properties that may help combat various infections, contributing to overall immune system support.
- Digestive Health: Schisandra may support digestive health by promoting the function of the gastrointestinal tract, which can aid in nutrient absorption and metabolism.
Kissed Earth incorporates the benefits of Schisandra in several carefully curated products. For instance, in the Detox & Debloat supplement, Schisandra works synergistically with other natural ingredients to relieve abdominal bloating and inflammation, supporting optimal detoxification pathways.
The Divine Woman formulation utilises Schisandra to nourish and support the reproductive system, while the PMS & Hormone supplement features it as part of a comprehensive approach to support hormonal balance, helping to ease symptoms of premenstrual tension and improve overall well-being. Each of these products highlights the versatility and efficacy of Schisandra in modern health care.
