Scarlet poppy in the field story. What forest flowers whisper about. Scarlet poppy in the field

Far Eastern lemongrass is a rather unusual plant, especially by Russian standards. This is a beautiful liana up to 15 meters long, which grows in the Far Eastern taiga, the stem of the plant is woody and covered with green leaves. In autumn, bright red berries ripen on the liana, which have a specific spicy, sour-salty, bitter (sometimes burning) taste. When rubbed, all parts of the plant emit a distinct lemon scent, which is how it got its name. Chinese lemongrass (as it is also called) has a wide spectrum of action and is very useful for human body. Today we will take a closer look at the Far Eastern Schisandra plant. The benefits and harms, instructions for use, properties and indications for use will be described in this article.

Amazing composition of the plant

In China, they have known about Far Eastern Schisandra for a long time; the properties of the plant have always been used by the indigenous people, it has an effective tonic and refreshing effect. In Russia they learned about him much later.

The fruits of Far Eastern Schisandra contain special substances - lignans, which have a wide range of biological activity. According to scientists, it is due to these components that the therapeutic effect of the plant is achieved, which has an antitumor, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and tonic effect. Far Eastern Schisandra (photos are in the article) is called an adaptogen, due to the stimulating effect of lignans on the central nervous system. Adaptogens are amazing natural substances that help increase the body's resistance to difficult conditions, such as sudden changes climate, intense physical and mental stress, oxygen starvation and others extreme situations. Such substances are not considered drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases in medical practice, but supporters alternative medicine Adaptogens have been used for tens of thousands of years. When used regularly, such substances are so capable of strengthening the immune system that the body overcomes even the most severe illnesses, therefore, Far Eastern Schisandra, along with ginseng, aralia, and eleutherococcus, can be classified as a plant for healthy people

Far Eastern Schisandra (berries) contains many organic acids (citric, malic, tartaric), vitamins E, C, sugars and pectins, anthocyanins, which have a powerful antioxidant effect, tannins (tannins), flavonoids (catechins). All parts of the plant contain essential oil; the seeds contain fatty oils rich in unsaturated fatty acids. The mineral composition of Chinese lemongrass is also extremely rich, although almost all macro- and microelements are present in small quantities - calcium, potassium, iron, zinc, manganese, copper, molybdenum, cobalt, aluminum, chromium, selenium, barium, iodine, strontium, nickel and others.

Glucosides and alkaloids, which are toxic substances, were not found in the berries of Schisandra chinensis.

Far Eastern Schisandra: use in medicine

Even ancient doctors knew that such a plant effectively restores strength and relieves fatigue. Modern scientists who have studied Far Eastern Schisandra also leave extremely positive reviews, its effect is as follows:

    activates regeneration processes and improves metabolism;

    has a stimulating and tonic effect on the nervous system;

    enhances positive reflexes and reflex excitability.

In what cases is Far Eastern lemongrass used?

According to reviews from patients and doctors, this plant shows high efficiency in the following cases:

    loss of strength caused by infectious and other pathologies;

    non-healing wounds and trophic ulcers;

    decreased tone of the cardiovascular system;

    hypotension;

    decreased performance;

    sluggish functioning of the digestive tract;

    weakness of skeletal and smooth muscles.

Far Eastern Schisandra can also improve the functions of the genitourinary and respiratory systems, activate carbohydrate metabolism and accelerate fat burning. The benefits of the plant have also been proven in the fight against conditions such as stress, depression, anemia, tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, bronchitis, sexual weakness, diseases of the stomach, kidneys, liver. In addition, the plant stimulates cell function, eliminates hangover syndrome, improves sleep.

Schisandra preparations are successfully used in dermatological practice; it is effective for vitiligo, alopecia, blistering and viral dermatoses, lichen planus, psoriasis, allergodermatosis, vasculitis and other difficult-to-treat conditions. skin diseases. In such cases, the action of lemongrass is aimed at strengthening the body’s overall resistance to various infections.

When we feel a loss of energy, we rush to brew coffee or strong tea, the invigorating effect of which comes quickly, but after a couple of hours it abruptly stops - this is always stress for the body, which will soon lead to nervous exhaustion. Far Eastern Schisandra acts gradually: the tonic effect increases slowly, over half an hour, and lasts up to 6 hours. The decline is also quite long, exhaustion nerve cells this does not happen, the body, on the contrary, accumulates energy.

You can purchase preparations containing Far Eastern Schisandra at a pharmacy or online store. Already a week after taking such medications, sleep normalizes, irritability disappears and performance improves.

Far Eastern Schisandra: instructions for use

Alcohol tincture of schisandra berries is effective for problems such as drowsiness, lethargy, decreased performance, fatigue, depression and asthenic syndromes. Take a drug containing Far Eastern Schisandra (a photo of the drug is in the article), before meals, 20-30 drops twice a day. In a similar way, you can take the drug during intense physical and psycho-emotional stress. If necessary, it is possible to use 30-45 drops of the product at a time.

You can buy a tincture of a plant such as Far Eastern Schisandra at a pharmacy or prepare it yourself.

How to prepare lemongrass tincture at home?

For the medicine you will need 20 g of dried lemongrass berries and 100 ml of alcohol. The berries must be crushed, placed in a dark glass bottle, filled with alcohol and closed tightly. For 7-10 days, leave the product at room temperature in a dark place, shaking occasionally. After filtering the composition, squeeze out the berries and leave for another 2-3 days, then filter again. If you do everything strictly according to the recipe, you will get a clear alcohol tincture. The resulting product should be taken before meals, 2.5 ml 2-3 times a day. The course of treatment is 2 weeks. The tincture has a good therapeutic effect for sleep disturbances, dizziness, depression, and headaches.

Infusion of Chinese Schisandra fruits

It is very simple to prepare such a remedy. The drug has a general strengthening and tonic effect, improves the functioning of the immune and nervous systems. So, in a wooden bowl you should crush 10 g of dried fruits of Schisandra chinensis, pour a glass of boiling water and put on low heat. After boiling, immediately remove, cool slightly, squeeze and strain the berries. There is an easier way to prepare the infusion: pour boiling water over the fruits and leave for 6 hours.

Take the resulting product 2-3 times a day, a tablespoon 30 minutes before meals; if desired, you can add sugar or honey to taste.

Tincture of Chinese lemongrass seeds

For preparation you will need crushed lemongrass seeds (10 g), its berries (20 g) and alcohol (100 ml). Berries and seeds are poured with alcohol and left in the dark. glass containers infuse at room temperature for 10 days. Afterwards, the resulting tincture should be strained. It is recommended to use the product on an empty stomach, diluting 20-30 drops with water. Indications for the use of this tincture are: anemia, general fatigue, fatigue, sexual weakness, colds and nervous diseases. The tincture is often used to prevent influenza.

Chinese lemongrass juice

The berries of such a plant are great option for preparing healthy juice for the winter. To do this, wash and squeeze fresh berries well, pour the resulting juice into sterile 0.5 liter jars and pasteurize for 15 minutes, then roll up the lids. In winter, this remedy is added to tea (1 teaspoon per 200 ml).

Far Eastern lemongrass tea

To prepare tea, you need young shoots, dried leaves or bark of Chinese magnolia vine. The raw materials (about 10 g) are poured with boiling water (1 l) and, without disturbing, left to infuse for 3-4 minutes. You can add lemongrass leaves to regular tea. Regularly drinking tea from of this plant, you can strengthen your immune system and increase your resistance to colds.

Schisandra Seed Powder

To prepare it, you need to fill the fruits of the plant with water and leave for several hours, then separate the pulp and remove the seeds. They must be dried well in the oven and ground into powder. The resulting product effectively protects the liver during acute or chronic hepatitis, after long-term illnesses, and also has a stimulating and tonic effect during mental and physical fatigue. Take the powder twice a day (0.5 g) before meals.

Contraindications to the use of Chinese lemongrass

Far Eastern Schisandra is a powerful natural stimulant; therefore, its use is contraindicated in conditions such as:

    arterial hypertension;

    cardiac dysfunction;

    epilepsy;

    increased excitability;

    overexcitement;

    arachnoencephalitis;

    arachnoiditis;

    chronic liver diseases;

    acute infectious pathologies.

In addition, it is recommended that women during pregnancy and breastfeeding, persons with vegetative-vascular dystonia, as well as children under 12 years of age.

To avoid insomnia, medications containing Far Eastern Schisandra are not recommended to be taken in the afternoon.

Side effect

In rare cases, after using products containing lemongrass, undesirable side effects may develop, namely:

    increased gastric secretion;

    tachycardia;

    headache;

    insomnia;

    allergic reactions;

    high blood pressure.

Conclusion

From this article you received a lot of information about this amazing plant, like Far Eastern lemongrass. Instructions for use, composition, indications and contraindications for use and properties have been reviewed by us. This plant is truly unique and helps get rid of most health problems. However, we should not forget that any therapeutic measures should be started only after consultation with an experienced specialist and a thorough medical examination, because quite often a person may simply not be aware of the presence of an allergy to any product or plant. We hope you find the information useful. Take care of yourself and be healthy!

This is a large climbing shrub-liana from the magnolia family. Its length reaches fifteen meters, and entwining trees, lemongrass resembles a grapevine. The thickness of the stem is 2 centimeters. The plant takes the form of a bush in the northern regions. Schisandra leaves are light green, petiolate and slightly fleshy, mostly arranged in tufts, and their petioles can be either reddish or pink. Flowers cream or white with a pleasant smell, and stamens of 3-5 pieces are united in a thick column.

Schisandra berries are 2-seeded, bright red, juicy, spherical, very sour. The seeds smell like lemon and have a bitter, pungent taste. The bark of the roots and stems also smells like lemon, hence the name Schisandra.

The liana grows wild in the south of Sakhalin, in Primorye; it can also be found in broad-leaved forests, in river valleys, along the edges, and in clearings. Abundant harvests of lemongrass occur once every few years, and due to careless cutting of branches during harvesting, the growth of the bush is stopped.

How to choose

Usually the fruits and seeds of lemongrass are harvested. As they ripen, the fruits are collected. And the drying process consists of two parts: first, the lemongrass berries are slightly dried in the air for two to three days, and after that they are dried in a special dryer or a conventional oven. Initially, the temperature is set within forty degrees, and by the end of drying it is raised to sixty.

How to store

Unfortunately, fresh lemongrass berries are difficult to find and buy. But summer residents grow this vine on their plots. The fruits, collected in a thin layer in boxes, are immediately dried. Then they are put into small bags.

You can squeeze the juice from fresh berries without damaging the seeds and preserve it with sugar. After standing for a while, the juice acquires a jelly consistency.

Another good way storing fruits is to cover them with sugar, grind them well and put them in a jar. Must be stored in the refrigerator.

Chemical composition

Schisandra fruits contain almost 20% organic acids, the main amounts being malic, citric and tartaric. A little sugar and about 500 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams of berries. It also contains pectins, tannins, saponins, flavonoids, and anthraquinones. Schisandra is rich in essential oils, because there are more than two percent of them in its stem and seeds, and more than three percent in the bark of the stems. Essential oil has found its use in perfumery.

Up to 33% fatty oil is included in the seeds. The oil consists of glycerides of unsaturated fatty acids - oleic and linoleic. Vitamin E was also found in it. Thanks to its composition, lemongrass has immunostimulating, adaptogenic, stimulating and tonic properties.

Nutritional value per 100 grams:

Beneficial properties of lemongrass

Composition and presence of nutrients

Schisandra leaves contain a large number of micro- and macroelements: calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, manganese, cobalt, iodine, zinc and aluminum. They are also present in fruits, but only in much larger quantities.

Value and beneficial features Schisandra fruits contain vitamins E and C, mineral salts, organic acids, sugars and other components mentioned above.

But the most important and useful components Schizandra contains schisandrol and schisandrin - biologically active substances included in the essential oil. They tone and improve liver function. These substances stimulate the cardiovascular and nervous systems. The daily dose of these substances is contained in 50 grams of fresh lemongrass fruit pulp.

Medicinal properties

Back in the 5th century, the refreshing and tonic effect of lemongrass fruits was known. Local hunters in the Far East took dried lemongrass berries with them when hunting; they helped them be more resilient.

Today, lemongrass has found its wide use as an adaptogenic and stimulating agent for mental and physical fatigue. It is also very effective for depressive and asthenic syndromes.

Schisandra berry tincture is used as a prophylaxis against acute respiratory infections and influenza. The glycogen content, under the influence of lemongrass, decreases in the liver, and increases in the muscles, and the amount of lactic acid changes on the contrary.

In China, lemongrass seeds and fruits are used for weakened heart muscle, cardiac neurosis, nephritis, and hypertension. A decoction of berries also lowers the level of sugar, chlorides and reserve alkali in the blood, and also stimulates tissue respiration well.

Fruits and seeds are prescribed for various diseases: anemia, sexual weakness, pulmonary tuberculosis, diseases of the kidneys, liver, stomach, and respiratory organs.

The infusion is very simple to prepare: take 1 tablespoon of dry or fresh berries and pour 250 ml of boiling water, leave for at least two hours. You need to take two tablespoons four times a day.

An alcohol tincture can be prepared as follows: 10 grams of crushed seeds, 20 grams of fruits, pour 100 ml of 70% alcohol, leave for 10 days, then strain. Take 25-30 drops on an empty stomach.

Use in cooking

In cooking, lemongrass is used to prepare delicious fruit drinks and syrups. Such drinks lift your spirits and relieve fatigue. Very tasty jams, preserves, preserves and compotes made from lemongrass. Confectionery factories add it to some types of marmalade, chocolate and candies. And at the Primorsky plant they produce refined sugar, which contains lemongrass extract.

Use in cosmetology

Schisandra raw materials have also found their application in cosmetology. It is included in moisturizing and toning masks

To all year round to enjoy the fruits themselves grown and benefit from them; gardeners prepare part of the harvest after harvesting. The article will talk about Chinese lemongrass and ways to preserve it healthy berries for the winter period.

What is a plant and what are the benefits of its fruits?

Chinese lemongrass is a perennial woody vine that can reach a height of 15 m. In nature, the plant can be found in China, Japan, and Sakhalin.

In autumn, fruits, collected in small clusters, begin to ripen along the entire length of the vine. These are round red berries with a sour taste and a strong lemon smell. In the photo of vines in autumn, the fruits always stand out as bright spots against the background of green foliage. It is thanks to their beneficial properties that the plant has become widespread in amateur gardens.

The fruits contain approximately 20% organic acids, many mineral salts, microelements and vitamins. The use of such a set has a positive effect on nervous activity person, which tones the entire body.

Due to their very sour taste, the berries are rarely consumed fresh. More often they are dried, or a brew is prepared from them. Various types of lemongrass preparations retain most of the beneficial properties of the berries and can be used as a preventative and medicine. The berries are harvested after they are completely ripe. In terms of timing, this falls in September-October. Remove the brushes very carefully, using a sharp knife. If the vine is severely damaged, it will not bear fruit next season.

Attention! Under no circumstances should you collect crops in galvanized buckets. When interacting with lemongrass juice, the metal begins to oxidize.

Dried and frozen fruits

Drying berries can be called the most in a useful way storage This preparation of lemongrass practically does not cause changes in the substances that make up the sour fruit. The process takes place in 2 stages. In this case, drying is combined fresh air and in the oven.

Advice. For this harvesting method to be successful, you do not need to tear the berries off the stalks. It is better to dry lemongrass with whole brushes.

The drying method looks like this:

  1. The berries removed from the vine are laid out on a baking sheet covered with a clean cloth or paper. At the same time, be sure to ensure that the bunches do not touch each other.
  2. Place the baking tray outside under a canopy or, even better, in a well-ventilated attic.
  3. After the lemongrass has dried a little, the berries can be separated from the stalks.
  4. Having spread the red fruits in a thin layer, the baking sheet is sent to the oven for 7 hours. The temperature during this time should be maintained within 45-55°C and no more.

This is done for several days. Schisandra, dried according to the rules, has a dark red color. In this case, the berries turn out to be evenly wrinkled and do not stick together. If you have the opportunity and desire to freeze the berries, then they should also be collected with brushes. The skin must be intact.

Advice. In order for the preparation of lemongrass using the freezing method to be successful, it must be kept in the refrigerator for several hours before immersing it in the freezer.

Prepared berries are laid out freely on plates, baking sheets and placed in the freezer. After a day, the lemongrass is removed, placed in special containers or bags and stored for long-term storage.

Jam, preserves and marmalade

Schisandra is not only very useful. Mixed with sugar it's quite delicious dessert, so some housewives are happy to make jam, preserves and marmalade from it. The first preparation of lemongrass has the following recipe:

  • berries – 1 kg;
  • sugar – 1 kg.

Red fruits are ground, thus separating the pulp from the skin and seeds. IN ready-made puree Add sugar and boil the mixture until thick. The jam is poured into jars, sealed and stored.

Jam is prepared in almost the same way, but in this recipe whole berries are used and sugar is added in a ratio of 1:1.5. Schisandra for such a preparation should be dense, slightly unripe. The recipe is done step by step like this:

  1. Without tearing off the stalk, wash the lemongrass well.
  2. Separate the berries and mix them with sugar. Leave it overnight.
  3. To make the future jam a little thinner and the container with it can be put on the fire, add a little water or apple juice to the lemongrass.
  4. The container with the brew is placed on the fire and boiled for 5-7 minutes in 2 batches, after which it is poured into jars.

This preparation of lemongrass, like jam, is distinguished not only by its excellent taste. It can be used as an excellent cold remedy.

Schisandra marmalade is a wonderful delicacy that will go perfectly with tea on long cold evenings. To prepare it you need to take:

  • lemongrass juice – 1 l;
  • sugar – 2-3 tbsp;
  • pectin – 3 tbsp.

It is prepared like this:

  1. Pectin is poured into slightly warmed juice and left to swell for 30 minutes.
  2. In another container, cook sugar syrup and 150 ml of juice.
  3. The pectin mixture is poured into the hot syrup and boiled until thickened.
  4. When hot, the mixture is poured into jars or, if consumed in as soon as possible, on low trays.
  5. Subsequently, the marmalade is simply cut into pieces with a knife.

Harvesting such valuable fruits as lemongrass is not particularly difficult. But in winter useful product will be able to tone up and help the body cope with a cold.

Thank you

Schisandra valued by many gardeners for its beautiful appearance, but not everyone knows healing properties this plant, which has long been used by our ancestors to treat many diseases and restore strength after serious illnesses. Today, even traditional medicine has recognized the value of this medicinal plant, which helps to increase immunity and improve the health of the body as a whole without harm to health. The types and medicinal properties of the plant, its effect on the body, rules of administration and contraindications will be discussed further.

Description of the plant

Schisandra is a woody vine whose leaves and stems have a pleasant lemon aroma. This plant grows mainly in the area South-East Asia and in the Far Eastern coniferous deciduous forests.

Schisandra is often called the “fruit of the five tastes.” Thus, the skin has a sour taste, the pulp is sweet, the seeds are bitter and astringent, and the berries are salty. Having bitten into a lemongrass berry, you first feel acidity, then a resinous aroma and bitterness, then a sweet taste, which turns into salty and fresh.

In terms of its tonic properties, lemongrass is second only to ginseng.

In total there are from 14 to 25 species of lemongrass. Scientists still cannot come to a consensus regarding the number of varieties of this plant. But only two are used for medicinal purposes - Chinese (or Far Eastern) lemongrass and Crimean (Crimean ironweed), and the first type is used in the vast majority of cases, and the second is not a woody vine. Let's take a closer look at these two types of plants.

Crimean lemongrass (Crimean ironweed)

Crimean lemongrass is an endemic of Crimea, that is, a plant that grows exclusively in the territory of Crimea (hence its name), and in a fairly small area. Crimean ironweed grows on well-warmed, sunny, rocky steppe slopes, as well as on limestone outcrops and pastures.

The oblong leaves of the plant reach 2.8 cm in length and have a pleasant lemon scent, which is why they are used as a tea substitute. Ironweed blooms in summer.
For medicinal purposes, the stems, leaves, flowers, and inflorescences of Crimean Schisandra are used, which contain the following chemicals:

  • vitamin C;
  • essential oils;
  • iridoids;
  • flavonoids;
  • fatty oil;
  • various organic acids.
Properties:
  • tonic;
  • immunomodulatory;
  • restorative;
  • antiemetic;
  • diuretic;
  • antifever;
  • wound healing.
Action of Crimean lemongrass:
  • strengthening immunity;
  • increasing potency;
  • stimulation of the central nervous system;
  • normalization of blood pressure.
Preparations from ironweed are indicated for the following pathologies:
  • anemia;
  • prostration;
  • increased drowsiness;
  • skin diseases;
  • upper respiratory tract diseases;
  • some diseases of the digestive tract and liver.
The following infusion will help cope with nausea and vomiting: 3 tbsp. iron grass herbs are poured with boiling water and left to infuse for one hour. The infusion is drunk half a glass three times a day.

Contraindications:
1. High blood pressure.
2. Nervous overexcitation.

Schisandra chinensis (Far Eastern)

Schisandra chinensis (hereinafter Schisandra) is a perennial woody vine, the stem of which can reach a length of 15 m and a diameter of up to 2.5 m. Stem bark young plant differs in a yellowish tint, while the old one is dark brown. The stem of the plant is wrinkled, and the rhizome is cord-like (has numerous adventitious roots).

Where does Schisandra chinensis grow?
Schisandra grows on the territory Far East, on the river coasts of the Primorsky and Khabarovsk territories, on the island of Sakhalin and in Amur region(its southwestern part).

Bark
An infusion of lemongrass bark is an excellent vitamin and anti-scorbutic remedy.

Root
The roots and rhizomes of lemongrass are rich not only in essential oils, but also in vitamins, therefore they are indicated as a general strengthening and tonic.

Stem
The stems of the plant are used as a stimulant and tonic, as they contain many biologically active substances.

Branches
Preparations from schisandra branches reduce blood pressure, eliminate drowsiness and increase breathing intensity.

Application

Taking Schisandra preparations is indicated for the treatment of the following pathologies:
  • non-healing wounds;
  • anemia;
  • fungal diseases;
  • diseases of the stomach, kidneys and liver;
  • respiratory diseases;
  • headache;
  • depressive states and mental disorders;
  • scurvy;
  • hypotension;
  • general fatigue;
  • increased drowsiness;
  • bronchitis and bronchial asthma;
  • dysentery;
  • sexual weakness;
  • baldness;
  • dermatoses;
  • lichen planus;
  • allergic dermatoses;
  • trophic ulcers;
  • diseases of the cardiovascular system;
  • infertility;
  • impotence;
  • epilepsy.

How to brew lemongrass?

Dried lemongrass leaves, bark or young shoots are used to brew tea. 15 g of raw material should be poured with one liter of boiling water, then, without stirring, leave the product for 5 minutes.

In addition, lemongrass leaves are added to regular tea, which is not recommended to be brewed in a thermos (this will help preserve the pleasant lemon aroma). Regular consumption of this tea will strengthen the immune system, increasing the body's resistance to colds.

How to use?

Schisandra preparations are taken on an empty stomach, or four hours after a meal.

Important! The first effect of lemongrass on the body will appear after 40 minutes and will last for 4 – 6 hours. But it should be noted that Schisandra preparations do not act on the body instantly: thus, the effect increases gradually (this can take from two to ten weeks), but positive dynamics will definitely be felt.

Methods of using lemongrass preparations

Decoction

Indicated when stomach diseases and disorders of the central nervous system, as well as a stimulant of cardiac activity. In addition, the decoction normalizes blood pressure, stimulates labor, increases resistance to oxygen starvation, and also reduces the concentration of sugar in the blood.

10 g of dry and crushed berries are poured into a glass of boiling water and placed in a water bath for 15 minutes. The cooled decoction is carefully filtered through cheesecloth and taken 25–35 drops twice a day, on an empty stomach.

Infusion

An infusion of lemongrass fruits is taken as a tonic, stimulating, general strengthening and fortified remedy, for the preparation of which 10 g of crushed raw materials are poured into a glass of boiling water and infused for six hours. You should take the infusion one dessert spoon twice a day - in the morning on an empty stomach and in the afternoon.

Tincture of lemongrass fruits and seeds

Tincture of fruits and seeds of the plant is prescribed for:
  • severe physical exhaustion;
  • mental fatigue;
  • increased drowsiness;
  • lethargy;
  • decreased performance.
Pharmacy tincture of lemongrass is recommended to be used 20-30 drops half an hour before meals, no more than three times a day. To treat the conditions listed above, it is necessary to complete a course lasting 20–25 days.
Important! In case of excessive psycho-emotional, as well as physical activity It is allowed to increase the dose to 35 - 40 drops at a time.

Lemongrass tea

Tea invigorates, strengthens the immune system, and prevents the development of colds. To prepare tea, place a tablespoon of fruit in an enamel bowl, add 200 ml of water and boil for 10 minutes, after which the tea is infused for a day, filtered and drunk throughout the day (you can add sugar to taste).

Extract

Action of the extract:
  • increasing resistance to stress;
  • stabilization of cell membranes;
  • reduction of oxidative cell damage;
  • reduction of inflammation;
  • decreased blood sugar;
  • lowering blood pressure, stimulating smooth muscles, reducing blood pressure.
Pharmaceutical extract of lemongrass, prepared with 70 percent alcohol, is taken 2-3 times a day, 25-30 drops.

Syrup

The syrup is used in the treatment of hypotension, drowsiness, impotence, as well as chronic infectious diseases and intoxications.

Pharmaceutical syrup is added to taste to any drinks, although it can be taken as an independent product, a tablespoon three times a day, during meals. The course is one month.

You can make syrup at home. To do this, juice is squeezed out of well-washed lemongrass berries through 2 layers of gauze and poured into an enamel pan, into which sugar is added (for 1 liter of lemongrass juice - 1.5 kg of sugar). The resulting mass is heated until the sugar is completely dissolved, after which it is poured into boiled bottles. The syrup is stored in a dark and cool place.

Juice

Indicated to eliminate menopausal syndrome, to increase potency, relieve nervous tension and irritability. In addition, lemongrass juice is rubbed into the head for baldness.

To prepare the juice, freshly picked lemongrass berries are washed and squeezed, after which the juice is poured into glass jars and pasteurized for 15 minutes. Hermetically sealed closed jars stored in a dark place. Juice is added to tea (1 tsp per glass of tea) to increase vitality and performance.

Schisandra seed oil

Schisandra oil is rightfully considered an excellent adaptogenic, restorative and anti-inflammatory agent, which improves tone, enhances potency and normalizes digestive processes. In addition, lemongrass seed oil accelerates the healing process of wounds.

This form of the drug is indicated for those whose professional activity associated with hypothermia, overheating, oxygen starvation and ionizing radiation.

Pharmaceutical lemongrass oil is sold in the form of capsules, which should be taken 2 - 3 pieces per day, after meals.

Schisandra tablets

This is one of the most convenient forms Schisandra preparations.

Tablets, the main component of which are Schisandra fruits, have the following effect:

  • prevention of the development of heart diseases;
  • strengthening blood vessels;
  • increasing the body's defenses;
  • slowing down the aging process.
Schisandra tablets are indicated as a general strengthening and mild tonic, as well as an additional source of flavonoids.

Dosage: 1 tablet twice - three times a day, for a month.

Powder

To prepare the powder, lemongrass seeds are ground using a coffee grinder. The powder is taken 0.5 - 1 g three times a day, before eating, for hyperacid gastritis.

Contraindications and side effectsIt must be remembered that lemongrass is a powerful stimulant, so it can only be used as prescribed by a doctor and in compliance with the specified dosage. Otherwise, the following side effects may occur:

  • increased gastric secretion;
  • allergy;
  • insomnia (to avoid insomnia, it is not recommended to take Schisandra preparations after six o’clock in the evening);
  • increased blood pressure.
If these side effects occur, you must stop taking the plant preparations.

Important! The use of lemongrass is carried out after a medical examination, and under the supervision of a doctor!

Recipes

Recipes with Chinese lemongrass (Far Eastern)

Berry tincture
It has an adaptogenic, restorative, tonic and choleretic effect.

One part of carefully crushed lemongrass fruits is poured with five parts of 95 percent alcohol (in other words, the tincture is prepared at a ratio of 1:5), after which the container with the tincture is well closed. The product is infused for 7 – 10 days in a dark place (necessarily at room temperature). It needs to be shaken periodically. After the specified period, the tincture is filtered (the residue is squeezed out and added to the resulting filtrate). The product is infused for another 4 - 5 days, and filtered again. The resulting product should be transparent. The tincture is taken 30-40 drops, no more than three times a day, for 25 days.

Tonic tincture
To relieve fatigue and improve performance, you can prepare the following tincture: the fruits are poured with 70 percent alcohol in a ratio of 1:3, and infused for three days. The tincture is taken in 25-30 drops. This remedy will not only give you vigor, but also increase your immunity.

Tincture for farsightedness
To prepare the tincture you will need 5 tbsp. lemongrass fruit and half a liter of pure alcohol. The fruits must be finely chopped and poured with alcohol, and then placed in a dark place for 12 days (not in the refrigerator). Shake at least once a day. After 12 days, the tincture is filtered and the fruits are squeezed out. Take 20 drops of the product, diluted with water, twice a day.

Recipes with Crimean lemongrass

Crimean lemongrass leaves and flowers can be used as a tea substitute, since the plant gives tea an excellent lemon aroma. In addition, this tea stimulates the functions of the cerebral cortex, energizes, and strengthens the immune system.

Infusion for nausea and vomiting
3 tbsp. dry plants are crushed and poured with boiling water, leaving to infuse for an hour. Take half a glass of infusion, twice a day.

Infusion for bronchitis and pneumonia
1 tsp The flowers of the plant are poured with a glass of boiling water and infused for half an hour. Take half a glass of the drug, no more than four times a day.

This infusion can be used as a poultice to speed up wound healing. In addition, such poultices have antitumor and antibacterial properties.

Baths with lemongrass
3 tbsp. dry plants are poured with two liters of water and boiled for five minutes. The cooled and strained broth is poured into a cool bath (temperature should be about 30 degrees). A fifteen-minute stay in such a bath will not only invigorate you, but also help relieve skin irritation.

Interesting facts about Schisandra chinensis - video

Before use, you should consult a specialist.

The medicinal properties and contraindications of Schisandra chinensis were discovered 15 centuries ago. Its healing power was discovered by accident, and in terms of tonic qualities the plant ranks second after ginseng. In China, there are many legends and beliefs associated with this vine. WITH Chinese language its name literally translates to “berry of five flavors.” Why is that? Because the plant actually contains 5 tastes according to Chinese tradition. The pulp is sour, the seeds are bitter and pungent, the skin of the fruit is sweet, and the prepared medicine is salty. Russian name“schizandra” reflects another distinctive feature This plant is its pleasant lemon aroma emanating from the fruits, young shoots, and leaves.

Features of Schisandra chinensis

In Russia, in the first half of the 19th century, the famous botanist N. S. Turchaninov studied this plant, then in late XIX centuries, the vine was described by the botanist V. L. Komarov. He was interested not only biological features, but also the benefits of lemongrass. The scientist lived among the Far Eastern Nanai, recorded stories of miraculous healings, and studied the peculiarities of treatment with the fruits and leaves of vines. However, clinical trials of this medicinal plant began to be carried out only during the Great Patriotic War. It is known that the plant was given to wounded soldiers in hospitals to promote a speedy recovery.

Habitat

IN wildlife The liana grows in Korea, China, and Japan. It also takes root well in the Far East, so it received a different name - Far Eastern lemongrass. These are the same type of plant. It can be seen on the island of Sakhalin, in the Amur region, on Kuril Islands, coast of the Tatar Strait. The liana grows in coniferous (mostly cedar) and deciduous forests. Loves the valleys mountain rivers, edges, clearings, clearings. You will not find it in floodplains or on flooded soils. The plant can also be seen at higher elevations (no higher than 600 m). It is a light-loving plant, although it can withstand prolonged darkening. Usually grows in groups, creating dense thickets over time.

In other regions of Russia, lemongrass is cultivated as ornamental plant at botanical stations. Experienced gardeners grow it not only for beauty, but also for medicinal purposes. In addition, the plant is a good honey plant.


Botanical description

What does Chinese lemongrass look like? It is a woody perennial vine that can reach a height of 15 m or more. In the northern regions, frost-resistant subspecies up to 4 m high grow. The liana spirals around the tall trunks of nearby trees. Its main stems are dark brown, rough, up to 2 cm in diameter. Young shoots are smooth, with yellowish bark. The leaves of Schisandra have an elliptical shape, reaching a maximum length of 10 cm and a width of 5 cm. It is easy to recognize the plant by its beautiful, bright red fruits, collected in clusters up to 10 cm long.

What is Crimean lemongrass

The plant Schisandra chinensis and Schisandra Crimean have nothing in common. Crimean lemongrass is called Crimean ironweed, or Tatar-tea, shepherd-tea. It is a herbaceous plant with light yellow flowers. When brewed, the herb acquires a pronounced lemony taste and smell (hence the name). It is found only in Crimea and also belongs to medicinal plants. Used as a wound-healing, anti-inflammatory and tonic. Herbal decoctions and infusions strengthen the immune system, local residents They drink them to prevent respiratory diseases.

Chemical composition

Beneficial substances are contained in different parts plants - in fruits, leaves, stems, young shoots, bark. Schisandra contains a lot of organic acids and B vitamins, vitamin C, fiber, and microelements. The most fatty oil and tonic substances are found in the seeds of the plant, and many essential oils are found in the bark and leaves.

Healing effect

What are medicinal properties Schisandra chinensis?

  • Tonic and restorative. Preparations based on schisandra stimulate nervous activity, cardiac and respiratory system. This happens thanks to a substance called “schisandrin”, which excites the central nervous system.
  • Immunostimulating. Substances contained in the plant strengthen the immune system. It is useful to drink tinctures and decoctions in the cold season to prevent ARVI, flu, and colds.
  • Psychostimulant. This medicinal plant restores not only physical strength, but also strengthens the body's mental resources, increases mental performance and memory, relieves fatigue, apathy and drowsiness.
  • Adaptogenic. Helps the body adapt to difficult environmental conditions - high mountains, cold or hot climates. Like ginseng and eleutherococcus, this plant strengthens physical strength during periods of heavy stress; it is recommended for athletes, climbers, tourists, military personnel, and people in physically difficult and dangerous professions.
  • Improves metabolism. The plant contains biologically active substances that have a beneficial effect on metabolic processes in the body. Schisandra lowers blood sugar levels and improves blood circulation.
  • Does lemongrass increase or decrease blood pressure? Some herbalists write about the regulating function of schisandra, that is, it equalizes blood pressure: when necessary, it increases, and when necessary, it decreases, dilating peripheral vessels. Other sources mention that berries are drunk at low blood pressure, and seeds at high blood pressure. In third editions they write that lemongrass is drunk only with low blood pressure. But you need to rely on a medical point of view. The instructions for use of lemongrass indicate that the drug increases blood pressure and is effective for asthenic syndrome, that is, loss of strength and low blood pressure.

The instructions rarely mention the secretory function of Schisandra. It can be used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (in particular, gastritis with low acidity), to normalize digestion, and improve intestinal motility.

Indications

What diseases, symptoms and conditions are included in the list of indications for the use of Schisandra chinensis?

  • Asthenia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
  • Neuroses.
  • Weak stress resistance.
  • Hard physical labor.
  • Psycho-emotional stress.
  • Sexual dysfunction in men due to nervous conditions.
  • Vegetovascular dystonia.
  • Prevention of viral respiratory diseases.
  • Decreased visual acuity.

The herbal medicine is also prescribed in complex therapy to restore the body after serious illnesses.

Contraindications

Contraindications for Schisandra chinensis:

  • any infections in the acute period;
  • chronic diseases of the liver, kidneys, heart;
  • mental disorders;
  • nervous excitement, insomnia;
  • congenital pathologies of the central nervous system;
  • epilepsy, seizures;
  • traumatic brain injury, increased intracranial pressure;
  • hypertension;
  • individual intolerance, allergic reaction.

You should pay attention to the drug interactions of the plant with other drugs. It is not recommended to take it together with the following medications:

  • analeptics;
  • stimulants nervous system(this also includes herbal preparations of ginseng and eleutherococcus);
  • neuroleptics;
  • sleeping pills;
  • tranquilizers.

Alcohol, coffee, and strong tea are also contraindicated during the course of therapy. Schisandra can be harmful to health by enhancing the effect of other medications, or, conversely, can inhibit their therapeutic effect.

Side effects while taking the herbal medicine may include the following symptoms: an allergic reaction with rash, swelling, itching, rapid heartbeat, headache, insomnia, increased blood pressure. If these manifestations are detected, you should stop taking the medication and consult a doctor. Schisandra chinensis is a powerful stimulant of the nervous system. Therefore, it is contraindicated for pregnant and lactating women and children under 12 years of age. Elderly people should also take the drug with caution.

Schisandra chinensis in pharmacology and folk medicine

Widespread use of Schisandra chinensis in pharmacology and folk medicine Once again confirms the medicinal value of this plant. What forms of release of this plant raw material are found in pharmacology? What medicines can be prepared from it at home?

Dosage forms of release

  • Pills. The medicine contains lemongrass fruit extract and the Terra-Plant flavonoid complex. The tablets are recommended as a mild tonic. Thanks to flavonoids, this herbal medicine normalizes heartbeat, blood pressure, strengthens capillary walls, stimulates the adrenal cortex. Tablets are available in 500 and 900 mg doses; they need to be dissolved so that the plant extract is absorbed more efficiently. Acceptable rate- 1 tablet 2–3 times a day. The course of treatment lasts no more than 4 weeks.

  • Syrup
    . In addition to Schisandra chinensis, the drug contains rosehip extract and vitamin C. This adaptogenic remedy can be taken once a day in the following dosage: for treatment - 30 ml (2 tbsp. spoons), for prevention - 15 ml (1 tbsp. spoon). The course of treatment should not exceed 3 weeks; prophylactic syrup can be drunk no more than 4 times a year. The herbal medicine is available in 150 ml bottles and can be stored for 2 years.
  • Powder. The Chinese found effective method processing and use of lemongrass fruits - they make powder from them and export them to Europe. This medicinal raw material can be ordered from China. It is not recommended to purchase large volumes of raw materials, since in this form they quickly lose their healing properties. The powder can be taken in dry form, or can be brewed and drunk in the form of decoctions.

  • Tincture
    . This is the most common dosage form that can be bought without a prescription in a Russian pharmacy. This drug is made from lemongrass seeds and is based on 95% alcohol. There are release forms of 25 and 50 ml. The tincture is often prescribed for complex therapy of asthenic syndrome. The medicine acts quickly - after 30–40 minutes you can feel a surge of strength and vigor, motor activity and performance increase, and your mood improves. The drug is effective for 4–6 hours. The permissible single dose for adults is 25 drops. The tincture can be drunk 2 or 3 times a day for 25 days. Read more about Schisandra chinensis tincture.
  • Fruits. Dried vine berries can be bought at the pharmacy. How to brew fruits? From them you can prepare water infusions, teas, decoctions, syrups, compotes. Alcohol tinctures are also made from dry fruits.
  • Oil. Essential oil Schisandra chinensis is used in cosmetology and aromatherapy, often used as a massage oil in combination with other oils. The drug moisturizes, regenerates, tightens the skin, and has rejuvenating properties. Oil is also added to creams, lotions, and soaps.
  • Herbal tea. In addition to lemongrass, its composition includes rose hips and the rhizome of the tea plant. This drug is called “Schisandra with herbs”. There is another herbal medicine called “Blueberry-mix”, which includes: the fruits of blueberries, rose hips, lemongrass, chokeberry, as well as petals Sudanese rose. How to brew and take herbal tea? One tea filter bag is poured with a glass of boiling water and left for 15 minutes. Drink ½ glass in the morning and at lunch.

Taking herbal medicine at any time dosage form must be under the supervision of a physician. The decision to repeat the course of therapy and changes in dosage is also made by the doctor. It is not recommended to take the drug in the afternoon, otherwise sleep problems and nervous system stimulation may occur.

How to cook at home

The use of lemongrass berries at home is very diverse. You can not only treat yourself with berries, but also enjoy them. Of course, residents of the Far East know best about the intricacies of using this plant in cooking. Teas, compotes, jelly, jam, juice, and homemade wine are made here from lemongrass fruits. In the Primorsky and Khabarovsk Territories, for example, lemongrass juice is produced industrially, which is then used in pharmacology. And in the confectionery industry they use berry pulp as a filling for candies.

Preparing the infusion

  1. Pour 1 tbsp. a spoonful of dried lemongrass berries with a glass of boiling water.
  2. Leave for 1 hour.
  3. Strain.

This water infusion can be taken one tablespoon 3 times a day.

Preparation of alcohol tincture

  1. Take 2 tbsp. spoons of dried Schisandra chinensis fruits.
  2. Pour in 10 tbsp. spoons of vodka (alcohol 40%).
  3. Leave for 7 days in a warm place.

Take the tincture 30 (maximum dose) drops 2 or 3 times a day and wash it down with water. The course of treatment lasts a month.

Preparing the decoction

  1. Pour one teaspoon of dry lemongrass into a glass of boiling water.
  2. Keep in a water bath for 3-5 minutes.
  3. Leave for 20 minutes, strain.

The decoction can be drunk a tablespoon 2-3 times a day. Store in a cool place for no more than a day.

Schisandra compote recipe

  1. Wash and destem fresh lemongrass fruits.
  2. Place in 0.5 liter jars.
  3. Pour boiling syrup made from sugar and water (1:1).
  4. Pasteurize in the oven at 90°C for 10–15 minutes.
  5. Close the jars hermetically.

In compote, despite heat treatment, the beneficial properties of the plant are preserved.

Making tea

  1. Take 1 tbsp. a spoonful of dried stems, bark, leaves of lemongrass.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon of green tea.
  3. Pour a liter of boiling water.
  4. Leave for no more than 5 minutes.

You can drink it throughout the day by adding honey to your tea. This good remedy for the prevention of ARVI.

Schisandra chinensis seeds contain the most useful substances-stimulants. Therefore, to prepare concentrated tinctures and decoctions, it is the seeds that are taken, and for a milder effect, you can brew berries, stems and leaves of the vine.

The beneficial properties of Chinese lemongrass have been well studied in pharmacology and traditional medicine. The plant is primarily valuable for its tonic, adaptogenic effect. Tinctures, teas, syrups, decoctions, and compotes are prepared from these medicinal raw materials. Due to its powerful stimulating effects, lemongrass should only be taken as prescribed by a doctor.



What else to read