Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Organic Schisandra

Q: How long does it take to see benefits?

Benefits like improved muscle strength and reduced lactate levels have been observed within a 12-week period.

Q: Is it safe for long-term use?

Long-term safety data is limited, so it’s advised to use caution for prolonged supplementation.

Q: Can it be used with other supplements?

Yes, but consider potential interactions, especially with supplements or medications affecting liver metabolism.

Q: Are there any known side effects?

Generally well tolerated; side effects are rare and mostly minor; monitor for interactions with liver-metabolized medications.

Q: When should I take it?

For exercise performance, it may be taken before or after workouts depending on personal routine.

Also known as: Wu Wei Zi, five-flavor fruit, schisandra berry, Chinese magnolia vine, Schisandra, Schisandra fruit, Schisandra chinensis

Overview

Schisandra chinensis is a deciduous woody vine native to East Asia, especially southern China, Korea, and parts of Russia. The plant's berries contain a variety of bioactive compounds, particularly lignans and polysaccharides, which are associated with several health benefits. Traditionally prized for their adaptogenic properties, Schisandra berries support energy enhancement, immune health, and liver function. Recent studies have investigated its potential to improve exercise performance and metabolic health, with a moderate level of established research confirming its pharmacological properties. Commonly consumed in extract form, Schisandra is also incorporated into various herbal formulations, which is reflective of its longstanding use in traditional medicine.

Benefits

Schisandra chinensis has several clinically supported benefits, most notably in exercise performance and liver health. A randomized controlled trial indicated significant improvements in muscle strength and reductions in lactate levels among women consuming Schisandra for 12 weeks (p < 0.001 for strength). It also provides protective effects against ethanol-induced liver damage by alleviating oxidative stress possibly through the CYP2E1 pathway. Users may also experience enhanced immune response and potential cardioprotective effects from diminished oxidative stress. However, while some anecdotal evidence suggests relief from menopausal symptoms, robust research validation remains scarce and effects may vary by demographic.

How it works

The beneficial effects of Schisandra chinensis are primarily due to its active compounds that interact with various biological pathways. It modulates steroid hormone receptors, thereby influencing stress response, and affects endopeptidase and neurotransmitter receptors, positively impacting nervous and immune systems. Furthermore, it helps maintain a balance in oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, leading to improvements in liver metabolism and cardiovascular function. The pharmacokinetics of Schisandra's constituents greatly influence its efficacy in diverse biological systems.

Side effects

Schisandra chinensis is generally considered safe for most users when consumed at recommended dosages; however, comprehensive long-term safety studies are lacking. Side effects are typically rare and mild, with individuals reporting good tolerance. Nevertheless, caution is advised for those on medications metabolized by CYP2E1, especially those affecting liver function. Individuals with liver issues or chronic liver disease should consult health professionals prior to use. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also be cautious due to insufficient data on safety during these periods. Monitoring for interactions with other drugs or supplements is recommended to ensure safe usage.

Dosage

There is no universally accepted dosage for Schisandra chinensis; however, most clinical studies recommend approximately 500 mg of extract administered twice daily for a period of 12 weeks, which has demonstrated beneficial effects. Some studies have suggested upper limits approaching 1000 mg daily without significant adverse reactions. Timing is flexible according to individual needs, with recommendations to take Schisandra either before or after exercise to maximize its performance-enhancing effects. Optimal absorption conditions and adherence to effective usage protocols should be prioritized for best results.

FAQs

How long does it take to see benefits?

Benefits like improved muscle strength and reduced lactate levels have been observed within a 12-week period.

Is it safe for long-term use?

Long-term safety data is limited, so it’s advised to use caution for prolonged supplementation.

Can it be used with other supplements?

Yes, but consider potential interactions, especially with supplements or medications affecting liver metabolism.

Are there any known side effects?

Generally well tolerated; side effects are rare and mostly minor; monitor for interactions with liver-metabolized medications.

When should I take it?

For exercise performance, it may be taken before or after workouts depending on personal routine.

Research Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6323208/ – This study conducted a randomized controlled trial that illustrated the ergogenic effects of Schisandra chinensis, noting significant improvements in muscle strength and lactate levels over a 12-week supplementation period.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2019.00120/full – This systematic review discusses the pharmacological effects of Schisandra chinensis, highlighting its antioxidant properties and potential for liver protection, particularly in the context of oxidative stress management.