Schisandra

Also known as: Schisandra chinensis, Schisandra sphenanthera, Wu Wei Zi, Omija, Five-Flavor Berry

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Adaptogenic berry used in traditional medicine; early evidence for stress relief and skin recovery, but research is limited.

What it does

Schisandra is a berry-bearing vine used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The provided research suggests it may help reduce perceived stress, improve sleep quality, and ease anxiety...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

No established dose from provided studies
Found in

1.M.R OG Pre-Workout Formula, Micro Ingredients Liver Advanced+

See full breakdown ↓ Methodology →

What the Science Says

Schisandra is a berry-bearing vine used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. The provided research suggests it may help reduce perceived stress, improve sleep quality, and ease anxiety when used in combination with other adaptogenic herbs. A topical extract has also shown promise for skin barrier recovery after cosmetic procedures, reducing redness and improving hydration.

What It Doesn't Do

Not proven to treat cancer in humans — lab studies on cancer cells don't translate to real-world treatment. Not shown to work as a standalone stress remedy; most clinical evidence uses it in multi-herb blends. No solid evidence it detoxifies the liver in humans. Don't expect it to replace medication for anxiety or sleep disorders.

Evidence-Based Benefits

May reduce perceived stress and anxiety when combined with other adaptogenic herbs like Rhodiola and holy basil.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 41656269

Part of an adaptogen blend shown to improve sleep quality and restorative sleep in stressed adults.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 41656269

Topical Schisandra extract may speed skin barrier recovery and reduce redness after cosmetic light therapy.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No established dose from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 41622613

Absorption & Bioavailability

Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies

Red Flags to Watch For

Most clinical evidence uses Schisandra in multi-herb formulas, making it impossible to isolate its individual effect
Cancer-related findings are from lab and animal studies only — not human clinical trials
Appears in over 1,000 registered supplement products, but clinical evidence base is thin
Some studies involve traditional Chinese medicine combinations with 10+ herbs, making attribution to Schisandra alone unreliable
No standardized dosing established from the available clinical research

Products Containing Schisandra

See how Schisandra is used in these analyzed products:

1.M.R OG Pre-Workout Formula

Supplement

Overhyped

Micro Ingredients Liver Advanced+

Supplement

Overhyped

View all product reviews →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Schisandra do?

Adaptogenic berry used in traditional medicine; early evidence for stress relief and skin recovery, but research is limited.

What is the effective dose of Schisandra?

No established dose from provided studies

Is Schisandra safe?

Most clinical evidence uses Schisandra in multi-herb formulas, making it impossible to isolate its individual effect

What doesn't Schisandra do?

Not proven to treat cancer in humans — lab studies on cancer cells don't translate to real-world treatment.

Research Sources

PubMed
NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-07-05