Schizandra is traditionally prepared in Chinese herbalism with goji berries, licorice and other tonic roots. In our recipe we use two other top energizing superfoods, astragalus and rhodiola root.
In Russian research, schizandra has been shown to have a wide range of pharmacological effects and specifically studied, alongside rhodiola, for its "anti-stress and anti-fatigue" qualities.
Ingredients:
For 2 Cups Tea
2C or half a quart pure water
1 1/2T dried schizandra (soaked and strained)
1T goji berries
1 1/2t astragalus root
1 1/2t rhodiola root
1/8t licorice root pieces
1/2t fresh ginger root
For 4 Cups Tea
4C or one quart pure water
3T dried schizandra (soaked and strained)
2T goji berries
1T astragalus root
1T rhodiola root
1/4t licorice root pieces
1t fresh ginger root
Directions:
Pre-soak and strain schizandra berries.
Add to half or one quart of boiling water, along with other ingredients.
Reduce flame to low heat.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes with a lid, preferably in a glass or ceramic pot
Strain and discard the herbs.
Serve as a hot or cold tea with natural sweetener of choice.
*Any cooled schizandra berry tea recipes can be blended as a liquid base for smoothies, shakes and even some desserts, like our superfood ice cream or goji berry lemonade. Schizandra also blends well with other cleansing herbs like pau d'arco, reishi mushroom, dandelion root and milk thistle to enhance its detoxification effects on the liver organ.
Precautions: While schizandra is relatively safe to consume for a wide range of people, it should be avoided when pregnant as it is a uterine stimulant. It may be appropriate to seek the advice of a qualified Chinese tonic herbalist for additional assistance, when creating individualized herbal formulations for specific health conditions. Consult your healthcare practitioner, before using schizandra, if you are taking prescription medications or have a serious medical illness.
