WHAT IS OMIJA?

Omija (오미자, 五味子) in Korean literally means “five flavor berries”. That’s because these berries give five different flavors namely, sourness, sweetness, bitterness, pungentness, and saltiness.

Anyway, in other cultures, omija is known as schisandra berry, schizandra berry and magnolia berry.

BENEFITS OF OMIJA

Omija is also commonly used in oriental medicine.

Because, it is known to:

• improve kidney and liver function
• be good for blood circulation
• increase resistance to disease and stress
• beautify skin

INGREDIENTS FOR OMIJA TEA

• 10 g / 0.35 ounces dried schisandra berry
• 1 L / 1 quart water
• (Optional) honey or sugar, to taste
• (Optional) Korean / Asian pear, peeled and flesh carved into flower shape

HOW TO MAKE OMIJA TEA       

1. Steep the dried omija in cold water overnight. Strain the berries and discard them (keeping the liquid). Add some honey or sugar if preferred. Optionally, you can also add some Korean / Asian pear pieces. Serve. (You can refrigerate the tea then serve cold too.)