Schisandra
Also known as: Schisandra chinensis, Schisandra sphenanthera, Wu Wei Zi, Omija, Five-Flavor Berry
Effective Dosage
No established dose from provided studies
What the Science Says
Schisandra is a berry native to East Asia, long used in traditional Chinese medicine as an adaptogen — a plant thought to help the body handle stress. The available clinical research tests it almost exclusively in combination with other herbs (like Rhodiola and ashwagandha), making it impossible to isolate Schisandra's individual contribution to outcomes like reduced stress, improved sleep, or immune support. Some research also explores its active compounds (lignans like deoxyschizandrin) for their effects on liver enzyme activity and potential use in cardiac formulas, though these are early-stage findings.
What It Doesn't Do
No solo clinical proof it reduces stress on its own — every positive study tested it in a blend. Not proven to boost athletic performance or build muscle. No strong evidence it treats diabetes, heart disease, or pneumonia by itself. Don't assume the benefits from multi-herb studies belong to Schisandra alone.
Evidence-Based Benefits
No papers were provided for analysis, so no evidence-based efficacy claims can be made from this dataset. Schisandra is a traditional Chinese medicinal berry historically used as an adaptogen, but without the actual study abstracts, no specific findings can be cited or verified.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose from provided studies
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for standalone use. Pharmacokinetic data from provided studies focuses on specific lignans (deoxyschizandrin) in animal models and complex formulas, not on standard oral Schisandra supplements in humans.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Animal toxicity study found a key Schisandra compound (Schisandrol A) caused cardiac developmental abnormalities and cell death in zebrafish at higher doses — long-term cardiac safety in humans is not established
- Schisandra compounds interact with CYP3A liver enzymes, meaning it could affect how your body processes many common medications including immunosuppressants and some cancer drugs
- Nearly all positive clinical evidence comes from multi-herb formulas — you cannot attribute the benefits to Schisandra alone
- Over 1,000 registered supplement products contain Schisandra, but clinical evidence for solo use is very limited — widespread use does not equal proven efficacy
Products Containing Schisandra
See how Schisandra is used in these analyzed products:
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: 2026-04-06