Apart from it's use in
increasing sexual stamina, preserving a radiant youthfulness
and it's reputation as a smart drug in recent times,
this herb is not only without adverse side effects
but actually has a positive cumulative effect. In China
it is said with 100 days of use that Schizandra will "purify
the blood, make one radiant and restore the liver" (the
liver is associated with aging in China). The long
term benefits are, as with any adaptogen, a strengthened
constitution, the ability to resist stress whether
chemical, or emotional and the heightened resistance
to disease. Specifically, Schizandra has been shown
to strengthen and protect the liver through regeneration
and detoxification, it increases metabolic activity
due to the increase of hepatic glycogen content and
relieving fatty degeneration of the liver and it has
also been shown to improve eyesight and is currently
being researched to determine through what mechanism
and to what extent.
So, it may be said that
Schizandra being a mood elevator through health and
increased mental clarity is capable of helping one
experience a happier as well as a healthier lifestyle.
The recommended dosage of Schizandra depends upon what
effects are desired and what form is being used. The
ripe, dried berries are used to make a most delicious
tea. Take 2 to 4 tablespoons of berries and immerse
in 2 cups water. Bring water to boil. Reduce heat to
a simmer and continue simmering 12 minutes or until
the liquid is reduced to one cup. Strain and cover
with 3 cups water so that the process may be repeated
when desired. The berries may be re-boiled until
they lose their color and taste, perhaps as much as
three times. Honey may be added but sugar is not recommended.
Some people also like the taste of the raw berries
and find it convenient to carry a small portion of
them to be sucked on as if they were a lozenge. Two
to three cups of tea per day should be enough for the
desired results.
The recommended herbs for
combination are determined by many factors. For males
Ginseng is most helpful as is Ho Shou Wu. Both increase
the longevity and sexual benefits of Schizandra. For
females Dong Quai is recommended as well as Peony root
(red). Dong Quai should be eaten in small quantities
over long periods of time. For immune purposes ginseng
and astragalus (Huang Ch'i) are excellent as well
as Reishi mushroom can be used with Schizandra. For
energy, Ginseng, Astragalus and/or Codonopsis (Dang
Shen) mix well with Schizandra. Also Ho Shou Wu and
Lycii berries. To calm one's spirit or for insomnia
use red dates and ginseng with Poria Cocos (Fu Ling)
and Schizandra in a tea along with a large portion
of cordyceps.
Prepare as you would for
Schizandra using all equal portions. For a female tonic
which prevents PMS and cramps use this daily: Schizandra,
Dong Quai, Lycci berries and Peony root. |
