Schisandra Fruit Dry Extract
Also known as: Schisandra fruit, Omija, Wu Wei Zi, Schisandra chinensis
Overview
Schisandra fruit dry extract is derived from the berries of *Schisandra chinensis*, a plant traditionally used in East Asian medicine. The fruit contains lignans such as schisandrin, schisandrol, and gomisin, which are considered its primary bioactive compounds. It is commonly used for cognitive enhancement, liver protection, anti-inflammatory effects, and adaptogenic properties to improve resistance to stress. The research on Schisandra is moderately mature, with a mixture of preclinical studies, some clinical trials, and a few systematic reviews, mostly from Russian and East Asian sources. The quality of evidence varies, with a need for more large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans. It is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and tinctures.
Benefits
Schisandra fruit extract has several potential benefits: * **Cognitive function:** Animal studies and some controlled trials indicate Schisandra extract improves learning and memory, likely through antioxidant and neuroprotective effects. For example, a study in mice with learning impairments showed significant improvements in maze performance and swimming time with Schisandra chinensis extract (p < 0.05 to p < 0.01). * **Anti-inflammatory and joint health:** Schisandra extract has demonstrated suppression of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, reducing inflammation in osteoarthritis models. A recent mouse study showed that Schisandra extract ameliorated arthritis pathogenesis more effectively than isolated schisandrol A, suggesting synergistic effects of the whole extract. * **Metabolic effects:** Preliminary animal data suggest Schisandra extract, especially combined with soybean, may improve glycemic control in type 2 diabetes models. * **Anxiety and insomnia:** Emerging but limited research suggests potential anxiolytic and sleep-improving effects, though human data are sparse and inconclusive.
How it works
Schisandra lignans modulate oxidative stress by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity and reducing reactive oxygen species. They also inhibit inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB and MAPK, which are involved in chronic inflammation and arthritis. The extract may protect neurons by reducing oxidative damage and improving mitochondrial function, contributing to improved cognitive performance. Effects on glycemic control may involve modulation of insulin signaling and glucose metabolism, though mechanisms are less well defined. Lignans are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, but bioavailability can vary depending on extraction methods and formulation.
Side effects
Schisandra fruit extract is generally well tolerated in typical doses used in studies. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported but is uncommon. Allergic reactions are rare. Potential interactions exist with drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, as Schisandra components can modulate liver enzyme activity. Caution is advised in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and liver disease due to limited safety data. Insufficient data exist for children and elderly; use with caution. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using Schisandra, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking other medications. Monitor for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if they occur.
Dosage
Extract doses in studies range from 500 mg to 1500 mg daily of standardized extract containing defined lignan content. Dry extracts standardized for lignan content are preferred for consistency. Divided doses with meals may improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal side effects. The maximum safe dose is not well established; doses up to 1500 mg/day appear safe in short-term studies. No specific cofactors are required, but antioxidant co-supplements may have synergistic effects. Always start with a lower dose to assess tolerance and consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.
FAQs
Is Schisandra fruit extract safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety data are limited; short-term use appears safe. Consult with a healthcare provider for extended use.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Cognitive and anti-inflammatory benefits may take several weeks of consistent use to become noticeable.
Can it be used with other supplements?
Generally yes, but caution is advised with drugs metabolized by liver enzymes. Consult with a healthcare professional.
Does it help with stress?
Traditional use and some evidence support adaptogenic effects, but high-quality clinical data are limited. More research is needed.
Research Sources
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S037887410800216X – This systematic review summarizes the pharmacological effects of *Schisandra chinensis*, highlighting its neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and adaptogenic properties. It emphasizes the role of lignans and notes the need for more clinical trials to validate these effects in humans. The review includes both preclinical and clinical studies, providing a comprehensive overview of Schisandra's potential therapeutic applications.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/15/3159 – This controlled animal study demonstrated that Schisandra chinensis extract significantly improved learning and memory in mice with induced cognitive impairment. The study showed dose-dependent effects on maze performance and error reduction, supporting antioxidant mechanisms. However, the findings are limited by the small sample size and the use of an animal model, necessitating further research in human subjects.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1934578X20970855 – This research showed that Schisandra extract suppressed NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, reducing osteoarthritis progression in mice. The extract was more effective than isolated schisandrol A, suggesting synergistic effects of multiple components. While the study used appropriate controls and demonstrated statistically significant effects, human clinical trials are needed to confirm relevance.
- https://vellmanherbs.com/scientific-papers-linking-schisandra-chinensis-to-anxiety-palpitation-and-insomnia/ – This resource compiles scientific papers linking Schisandra chinensis to potential benefits for anxiety, palpitations, and insomnia. While the compilation suggests potential therapeutic applications, it is important to note that the evidence base may vary in quality and further rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcmm.17814 – This study investigates the effects of Schisandra extract on osteoarthritis in mice, demonstrating that it ameliorates arthritis pathogenesis more effectively than isolated schisandrol A. The findings suggest synergistic effects of the whole extract in reducing inflammation and joint damage. However, the results are based on an animal model, and human clinical trials are necessary to validate these findings.