Origin
It is a climbing plant native to northern China, but is also found in Russia and Korea.
It uses the fruit which is harvested in autumn, then steamed before being dried in the sun.
Bioactive principles and therapeutic properties
Its high content of vitamins A, C and E in its essential oil, together with lignans (schizandrin and schizandrole), determines its use in states of asthenia, weakness and chronic stress.
It boosts immune defenses and improves mental and physical performance capacity and visual fatigue. Schizandrin and schizandrole also have antioxidant properties.
Tolerability
There are no known side effects associated with appropriate use of Schizandra.