‘Adaptogenic’ is a descriptive term ascribed to those compounds in TCM that have apparently contradictory effects. For example, the same compound may lower high blood pressure and raise low blood pressure. They do this by identifying a need in the body and directly bringing it back into balance. They are drugs that aim at creating an ideal climate in the body; as such they are perfect for sustaining general wellbeing as well as for treating specific conditions.
Schizandra berry is highly thought of in Chinese medicine. It is said to improve mental functions, as well as to detox the body and purify the skin. Many claim that it also strengthens the sex organs. Its most notable wellness benefit is in improving mental clarity. It does this by improving adaptability to stress and stimulating the nervous system; providing alertness without the excitatory effect of caffeine. Schizandra is currently the subject of medical research into its effects on the liver, and it is hoped that it will become a useful part of treatment for liver disorders.
The Chinese call Schizandra the ‘five-flavoured seed’ because it includes five tastes: sour, bitter, sweet, acrid and salty. Considering the importance of the ‘five tastes’ in both Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, this fact provides a very optimistic guide to its all-round effectiveness. In the Far East, Schizandra has long been considered a remarkable tonic, and is credited with promoting longevity and increasing stamina. Its curative and wellbeing qualities are now firmly recognized throughout Russia, Western Europe and the U.S.A.