Application of lemongrass berries

Description

Schisandra is a Far Eastern liana. This plant belongs to the genus Lemongrass, the Limonaceae family. The smell of crushed leaves will remind you of the concentrated smell of lemon, hence the Russian name. Eastern peoples call this plant the berry of five tastes.

Where does it grow

Schisandra has become widespread in Asia - in China, Korea and Japan. It grows on fertile soils, loves light, does not bear fruit in shaded areas. In a temperate continental climate, lemongrass takes root well in gardens and home areas.

What does it look like

Schisandra is a powerful deciduous vine with a woody stem up to 2.5 cm thick and can reach 15 meters in length. The liana is able to cling to almost any surface, most often choosing a place of residence on other plants - trees and bushes. Schisandra flowers can vary depending on the species and cultivar. The fruits of lemongrass are spherical, bright red or burgundy in color, and are placed on clusters of several dozen berries. Inside the berry contains a pair of yellow or brown seeds.

What a taste

Most often, lemongrass fruits have a sour taste, but there are berries with a spicy, salty, bitter and burning aftertaste. The fruits leave a lemony smell on your hands.

Types of lemongrass

In total, there are more than 20 species of lemongrass. Despite this, only a few of them are actively cultivated.

Crimean lemongrass is a frost-resistant representative of lemongrass. It loves sunny areas, is a short plant, reaching a height of only 75-80 cm. It grows on the Crimean Peninsula and in places with similar climatic conditions.

At the beginning of summer, red-flowered lemongrass is covered with small bright flowers. This type of lemongrass is a long vine up to 9 m. To obtain a harvest, it is necessary to plant two individuals of different sexes. The fruits are collected and ripen in clusters up to 12 cm long.

The most common type of Schisandra is Schisandra chinensis. It stands out with large flowers up to 15 cm in diameter. Flowering occurs at the end of May - beginning of June. This species is quite tall, reaching 10 m. The leaves are dark green, up to 10 cm long.

Schisandra varieties

Thanks to the active work of breeders at the end of the twentieth century, new varieties of lemongrass appeared, adapted for growing in our latitudes. Considering the small demand among gardeners for lemongrass, even several varieties are already a large variety.

The very first variety of lemongrass developed was “Pervenets”. It is a late variety and has very sour fruits. It is distinguished by thin and narrow shoots that curl well. The clusters are small, up to 6 g, on which up to 12 berries ripen.

Schisandra variety "Myth" belongs to vigorous vines, mid-late varieties. “Myth” is a winter-hardy and drought-resistant plant. Each brush reaches a weight of up to 7 g and holds up to 15 berries. When ripe, the fruits acquire a rich red color of dark shades. The berries taste sour with a resinous aroma.

Relatively recently, in 2013, a new mid-season variety of lemongrass “Debut” was bred. It is also frost and drought resistant. It differs in that the plant is bisexual. The clusters ripen in large sizes, containing up to 30 brightly colored berries of 1 g each. The fruits have a dense skin and, when ripe, take the shape of a cylinder.

How to grow lemongrass

Schisandra is planted using prepared seeds, vegetative methods or purchased seedlings. The seeds must be stratified for several months or soaked in water for a week, then kept in damp sand for about a month. Seeds can be sown in boxes or other special containers, and after stratification - directly into the ground. It is recommended to plant lemongrass in early spring after the last frost.

Schisandra is a fairly unpretentious plant. Caring for it does not require much effort and time. The main thing is to avoid mistakes when planting a plant, otherwise all the care work will be in vain. Schisandra loves light very much, so in a darkened area or in partial shade, fruits will not appear on the vine. The plant also has its own attitude to moisture; it does not tolerate excessive soil moisture, and during drought, the leaves become lifeless and lethargic. Because of this, the soil near the lemongrass needs to be loosened and watered regularly. It is recommended to loosen the soil to a depth of no more than five centimeters, since the rhizome of lemongrass, located close to the surface of the earth, can be damaged.

The place for planting lemongrass must be selected on a flat surface so that there is no stagnation of moisture during rains. If it is difficult to find such a place on your site, you should add an artificial bed. Experienced gardeners recommend limiting the area where vines can grow, because this has a bad effect on yield.

If frosts strike during the flowering of lemongrass, then the future harvest will not be able to be saved. To avoid this, depending on the climate, it is recommended to make shelter and smoke.

Beneficial properties of lemongrass

It should be noted that Schisandra chinensis is especially beneficial for restoring, strengthening, and rejuvenating human genitourinary function. For sexual dysfunction, syrups and complex mixtures based on Schisandra extract, a classic adaptogen and aphrodisiac, are offered. Schisandra helps to increase adequate blood flow in the genitals, significantly increases libido, and naturally increases the production of male and female hormones.

The market offers many means to improve potency in men, but Schisandra is valued primarily for its effectiveness and safety, it has been successfully used by Eastern medicine since ancient times, it has a long-lasting effect, and does not develop dependence. In this case, the leaves and fruits of the plant are brewed with boiling water and drunk as tea.

Chinese medicine has extensive experience in using lemongrass for infertility. Hormone-like substances that are present in the plant improve ovarian function in women and sperm formation in men. Tinctures and decoctions are good for relieving menopausal syndrome, neurological disorders, hormonal disorders, and help with stress, neurosis, depression, inhibiting the production of cortisol. Schisandra is useful as an antioxidant, removes harmful substances from the body, and inhibits oxidation.

However, the most unexpected result of using lemongrass was obtained by gerontologists. It has been proven that lemongrass slows down the aging process of the human body. It is not for nothing that China is famous for its long-livers; the Chinese diet invariably includes lemongrass fruits. The plant helps not only prolong youth, but also increase life expectancy.

Harm and contraindications of lemongrass

In addition to all the beneficial properties, lemongrass has contraindications. Excessive consumption of berries can harm even a completely healthy person. The berry can cause tachycardia, headaches, and high blood pressure. In addition, lemongrass is a strong allergen, the reaction to which can manifest itself in a wide variety of forms. If rashes, itching, difficulty breathing or other symptoms occur, you should immediately consult a doctor.

This plant and its fruits have potent stimulating properties. Therefore, only after consultation with a doctor can lemongrass be used for diseases of the cardiovascular system, nervous disorders, high blood pressure, and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

It is not recommended for pregnant women and women during lactation. Schisandra fruits should not be taken in the evening, as this can lead to insomnia. The use of lemongrass is contraindicated for children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications to the use of Chinese lemongrass

Far Eastern lemongrass, like any product of increased activity, has contraindications for use. The absolute ones include:

1. Hypertonic disease.
2. History of epilepsy.
3. Some disturbances in the functioning of the heart.
4. Sleep disorders of a pathological nature.
5. Increased excitability.
6. Increased intracranial pressure.
7. Allergy.
8. Pregnancy (the only exception is cases when taking the medication is recommended by a doctor for some indication).
9. Breastfeeding period.
10. Vegetovascular dystonia.

In general, before starting a treatment or preventive course, you need to get a doctor’s approval for taking Far Eastern Schisandra. As you use the products, you need to monitor your condition. If side effects occur, you should discard the product and seek help from a specialist.

Mother Nature took care of us in the literal sense of the word; she rewarded humanity with the enormous potential of useful plants. One of many of these plants is Far Eastern Schisandra or Chinese, as it is also called.

With its medicinal and culinary properties, it has rightfully won its place in our lives and beyond. In addition, lemongrass has become a panacea in folk medicine.

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And for good reason. The vitamins and microelements it contains help with many ailments and diseases. It is taken both in everyday life and for preventive purposes.

Benefits of lemongrass juice

Juice from lemongrass berries retains its healing properties for 3 years; thanks to the presence of citric, malic, and tartaric acids, it does not turn sour or mold. Juice can be prepared in two ways - from fresh or dry berries.

Schisandra juice from dried fruits is prepared as follows: pour 5 tablespoons of berries into 1 liter of water, boil for 10 minutes, leave for 12 hours, strain, add 1 glass of sugar, bring to a boil, stirring continuously. Pour into small containers, seal tightly, and place in a cool, dark place.

Fresh berry juice is prepared from fruits harvested 1-2 days ago. The berries are pressed manually or through a press, while being careful not to crush the seeds and squeezed out. The resulting juice is mixed with sugar in a 1:2 ratio. Let it sit until the sugar is completely dissolved in the juice, pour it into a dark container, roll it up, and store it in the cellar.

Take the juice in its pure form, one tablespoon per day every morning for the problem of gastritis with low acidity, to strengthen the immune system, as a tonic, biostimulant for loss of strength, headaches, and colds.

The juice can be diluted with mineral water at the rate of 75 ml of juice per 1.5 liters of water. This lemon drink relieves hangovers, quenches thirst, acts as an antidepressant, burns excess fat accumulation, and increases physical performance.

How to brew lemongrass

To prepare a healing drink, you can use fruits, bark, and leaves. For one liter of boiled water, take 15 g of any type of raw material. The drink should steep for a few minutes.

Tea made from lemongrass leaves. Schisandra leaves make a delicious drink that can be drunk instead of tea. To preserve the aroma, do not use a thermos for brewing.

Lemongrass berry tea. Schisandra fruits can be brewed using the classic method. 1 tbsp. l. The fruit is placed in an enamel pan, 200 ml of water is poured in, and the mixture is boiled for 10 minutes. The tea is infused for 24 hours, then filtered. You can add a little sugar to the drink and drink it throughout the day.

Tea from the lemongrass vine. For the cold season, tea made from fresh or dried stems, which need to be cut into small pieces, is suitable.

Green tea with lemongrass. This drink gives a good mood and vigor, since lemongrass and tea successfully complement each other, enhancing the effect of each.

2-3 tsp. green tea

1 tbsp. l. dried lemongrass fruits

1/3 tsp. ground ginger

Honey to taste

The berries need to be brewed in 500 ml of water and brought to a boil. Remove the mixture from the heat, add ginger and tea. After five minutes, the tea drink can be poured into cups, adding honey.

Do not overuse lemongrass tea. The norm is one, maximum two cups per day.

Schisandra tincture

Tinctures are most often prepared based on Chinese lemongrass. To prepare, lemongrass berries are poured with alcohol at a ratio of 1:5. The mixture must be infused for 10 days, placed in a dark place. Then the mixture is filtered, 20 ml of alcohol is added to the sediment and infused for another 10 days. Next, the two tinctures are mixed and filled with the same volume of purified water. This tincture is useful for dizziness, depression, and sleep disturbances. The course of treatment is 2 weeks. You need to take 2.5 ml 2-3 times a day.

Beneficial properties of lemongrass leaves

Schisandra leaves are known for their high linganan content. These organic compounds increase the resistance of human cells to the effects of free radicals and slow down the aging process. The acids contained in lemongrass leaves detoxify the body and stimulate the immune system.

Schisandra leaves are used in the form of teas. To do this, the leaves of the plant are dried and brewed with boiling water, infused for half an hour and taken orally after meals.

This tea is used in the treatment of viral and respiratory diseases; it helps improve the functioning of the cardiovascular system and has wound-healing properties.

Far Eastern lemongrass - healing and beneficial properties

Back in 250 BC, healers from China discovered the enormous benefits of the plant.

The healing power of lemongrass was so strong that it became second in importance after ginseng.

What are the properties of this plant:

• Stimulation of reflex activity;
• Increased excitability of brain neurons;
• Tonic effect on the whole body;
• Stimulating effect of the entire nervous system;
• Increased mood;
• Strengthening the effect of analeptics (camphor, caffeine);
• Antidepressant effect;
• Improving the body's performance;
• Thanks to the phytoestrogens in the composition, it helps women cope with PMS and menopause;
• Hepatoprotective effect;
• Enhances male power (considered an aphrodisiac);
• Suppression of the growth of malignant neoplasms;
• Therapy of pathologies of the respiratory system;
• Immunomodulatory and immunostimulating effects.

Schizandra (the official name of Schisandra) has such a rich list of healing properties due to its chemical composition.

A storehouse of useful substances was found in the fruits, juice and seeds of the plant:

• Organic acids (citric, tartaric, malic);
• Sahara;
• Vitamins (C, B1, B2, E);
• Tonic substances (schisandrins);
• Fixed oils;
• Essential oils with a subtle lemon aroma.

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Schisandra in cosmetology

For cosmetic purposes, lemongrass is used as a tonic, regenerating, and rejuvenating agent for skin cells. All preparations with lemongrass for the body and hair are incredibly rich in vitamins and acids, which allows you to preserve youth and beauty for a long time.

A mask made from fresh crushed lemongrass fruits is recognized as the most effective way to heal and detoxify facial skin. Berry pulp cleanses pores well, relieves inflammation, smoothes out fine wrinkles, and is suitable for all skin types. For flabby, aging skin, a mask made from berry pulp, 1 chicken egg yolk, and 1 tablespoon of natural cream will be effective. The mask must be applied to previously cleansed skin of the face and neck, the layer of the mask should be thick, leave for 15-20 minutes, rinse with warm water, then wipe the skin with lotion. The mask nourishes the skin well, smoothes it, and helps restore elasticity.

You can prepare a homemade lotion based on lemongrass fruits: pour 2 tablespoons of crushed berries into 250 ml of vodka, leave in the refrigerator for 10 days, then add 1 teaspoon of glycerin and 500 ml of mineral water to the solution. Wipe the skin with the resulting lotion morning and evening. Lemon lotion moisturizes, strengthens blood vessels of the face and neck, gives tone, and removes dead epidermal cells.

Schisandra oil is especially popular in cosmetology. Interestingly, there are several varieties of plant oils; stems, leaves, berries, bark and seeds are processed. It is used in medicine to treat many skin diseases as a main additive in creams, ointments, and elixirs. For cosmetic products, more valuable and expensive essential lemon oil is prepared from seeds, which has a strong anti-aging effect. The oil is taken internally, according to the attached instructions, and externally - for massages, added to masks, baths, and filled with aromatic lamps. Face masks with the addition of lemongrass oil are effective in combating enlarged pores, acne, and premature wrinkles. The skin becomes noticeably less oily and acquires a matte tint. It is also useful to add oil to the finished cream: for 10 ml of cream, add 2 drops of lemongrass oil, 1 drop of tea tree oil, 2 drops of chamomile oil.

The oil is also used in the perfume industry to produce branded soaps and perfumes. The delicate scent of lemongrass in perfumes has a therapeutic effect, awakens joy, gives energy and vigor.

For brittle, lifeless hair, an infusion of any dry parts of lemongrass will be an excellent restorative rinse: pour 2 tablespoons of the collection into 1 liter of boiling water, leave until cool, use after each hair wash. The hair will become stronger, stop falling out, become silky and shiny, and irritation on the scalp will disappear.

Organic cosmetics based on lemongrass are considered anti-aging, effectively fight aging, and increase the protective functions of the skin.

Use in folk medicine

The healing plant is popular in homeopathy. The raw materials, represented by the above-ground parts of the herbaceous subshrub, are included in many folk remedies. They are intended for external and internal use.

Crimean lemongrass is recommended for the following pathologies:

• fungal skin infections and non-healing wounds;
• anemia;
• impotence and infertility;
• disorders of the digestive system;
• kidney and liver diseases;
• bronchitis and asthma;
• insomnia;
• migraine;
• fast fatiguability;
• epilepsy;
• dermatitis, psoriasis and skin rash;
• diabetes.

For shallow wounds

In case of violation of the integrity of the skin, poultices are made. To prepare the medicine, you need to pour dried iron iron raw materials (50 g) with boiling water (300 ml). The vessel is closed and wrapped in a towel, put in a dark place. After an hour, the liquid is filtered and applied to the damaged skin using gauze folded in several layers. The compress is removed after 20 minutes.

After external use of the shepherd tea infusion, the wound is washed with warm water.

In case of poisoning

Crimean lemongrass has antiemetic properties. It is used in cases of poisoning. When vomiting, use a healing potion. To prepare the product, brew 45 g of Crimean lemongrass raw material in 250 ml of boiling water. The dishes are closed and placed in a dark place. After an hour, the liquid is filtered and consumed up to two times a day, 100 ml.

An infusion of Tatar tea helps eliminate the urge to vomit in case of poisoning

For pharyngitis and laryngitis

Respiratory infections often lead to inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. In this case, it is recommended to take an infusion prepared from Crimean lemongrass flowers. Dry raw materials are poured with 250 ml of boiling water. The product is taken after 40 minutes up to four times a day, 80 ml.

Iron infusion helps eliminate the inflammatory process in upper respiratory tract infections

For erectile dysfunction

Weak potency is a consequence of sexually transmitted infections, hormonal and metabolic pathologies. If the reproductive system in men is disrupted, a tincture made from shepherd tea is used.

To make the medicine, you need to pour 30 g of lemongrass raw material into 100 ml of vodka. The composition is poured into a glass bottle and placed in a dry and dark place. The product is ready for use after seven days. The dosage is one teaspoon of the drug, which is taken on an empty stomach.

Crimean lemongrass tincture enhances erection

Skin rejuvenation

Baths with the addition of decoctions and infusions of Tatar tea have an anti-aging effect. Their use also calms the nervous system and improves blood circulation. Boil three tablespoons of shepherd tea in 2 liters of water over low heat. After five minutes, the composition is filtered and poured into the bath. The water temperature should be 30 °C. The duration of the procedure is 15 minutes.

Baths with Crimean lemongrass help nourish dry skin

Use in cooking

Most often, lemongrass berries are used in cooking in the preparation of tonic drinks: fruit drinks, syrups. Compotes, preserves, and jams are made from the fruits. Dried lemongrass is used as a seasoning; it adds tartness and reveals the aroma of dishes.

You can get dried lemongrass at home; when the berries are dried, the plants do not lose their properties. In order to dry the fruits, they must be thoroughly washed, the water drained and sent to dry in the oven at a temperature of 40-50 degrees. It is recommended to open the oven door slightly, and the temperature should not be increased beyond the specified limits, since at higher temperatures the beneficial substances begin to be destroyed.

Composition of Far Eastern Schisandra and properties of substances

Medicines prepared from individual parts of Far Eastern Schisandra have dozens of positive effects. This is explained by the presence in their composition of very active chemical elements and compounds:

• Essential oils. Fight bacteria and inflammation. Accelerate wound healing and suppress pain.
• Lignans. They combine the properties of fiber and antioxidants, reducing the likelihood of cancer in humans. They also lower blood cholesterol levels, normalize hormonal levels and stimulate metabolism at all stages.
• Vitamin C. Strengthens the immune system, normalizes the course of oxidative processes, stimulates the synthesis of hormones by the adrenal glands.
• Vitamin E. Has a positive effect on the condition of the reproductive system, reduces the severity of symptoms during menopause in women. Prevents the formation of blood clots due to increased blood density and accelerates wound healing.
• Mineral salts. They take part in hematopoiesis, formation and restoration of body tissues. Regulate water and acid-base balances. They trigger the synthesis of hormones by the endocrine glands.
• Organic acids. Inhibits the activity of fungi and other pathogenic microorganisms. Reduce inflammation, stimulate hematopoiesis, activate the body's defenses. They are also able to fight toxins and facilitate the discharge of phlegm in respiratory diseases.
• Fixed oils. These substances also provide products based on Far Eastern Schisandra with anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to accelerate recovery processes.

• Tannins. They have a special effect on proteins, changing their structure. This leads to the formation of a protective film that prevents microorganisms from having a negative effect on cells and tissues.
• Flavonoids. Powerful antioxidants, which are also known for their soothing and choleretic properties. They strengthen the walls of capillaries, normalize blood pressure, and regulate heart rate.
• Pectins. Reduce the level of harmful cholesterol in the blood and activate metabolism. As a result, toxins and other harmful substances are eliminated from the body faster.
• Cellulose. One of the most effective substances in terms of improving intestinal function. Stimulates natural weight loss and normalizes blood flow in the pelvic organs. Thanks to it, taking medicines based on Far Eastern Schisandra allows you to get rid of problems in the genitourinary area.

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This composition gives preparations made from Chinese lemongrass a lot of beneficial properties. True, it is better to ask your doctor what is best to use in a particular case. A tincture from the bark of a plant will differ greatly in its principle of action from a decoction of its fruits. Particular care should be taken when using homemade products.