Schizandra Chinensis Fruit Extract
Also known as: Chinese Magnolia Vine, Five-Flavor Berry, Wu Wei Zi, Schisandra chinensis
Overview
Schisandra chinensis is a plant native to East Asia, recognized for its fruit used extensively in traditional Chinese medicine. The fruit extract is notable for its diverse bioactive compounds, including dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. It is primarily utilized to address various conditions such as diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and Alzheimer’s disease while enhancing overall health. The primary active constituents seem to offer wide-ranging properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, antiviral, and anticancer effects. While research on S. chinensis is growing, much of it involves mechanistic studies and animal models, with a significant need for more rigorous clinical trials to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans. Current evidence suggests its therapeutic potential, but the quality of available studies varies with limited systematic reviews and meta-analyses.
Benefits
Evidence-backed benefits of Schisandra chinensis include potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, demonstrated by the ability to down-regulate inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 while up-regulating IL-10 in DKD models. Additionally, animal studies indicate improved glycemic control for type 2 diabetes. Neuroprotective effects may be relevant for Alzheimer's disease, as suggested by metabolomics studies. The extract’s bioactive components also exhibit anticancer and antiviral properties, primarily observed in vitro and in animal models. Key studies show significant renal function improvements in DKD with a marked reduction in inflammatory markers. These benefits appear most pronounced in diabetic patients and those with neurological disorders. Overall, while scientific support exists, further human trials are essential for definitive conclusions.
How it works
Schisandra chinensis primarily influences the AGEs/RAGE signaling pathway crucial in the inflammatory response, particularly in diabetic kidney disease. It regulates cytokine production and activates mitochondrial protective mechanisms, thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. The extract's bioactive components demonstrate strong binding affinity to essential pathways, enhancing renal function and providing neuroprotective benefits.
Side effects
Generally recognized as safe when consumed at traditional doses, Schisandra chinensis has few reported side effects. However, potential drug-drug interactions may arise due to its components inhibiting cytochrome P450 and P-glycoprotein activity, warranting caution, especially for individuals on concurrent medications. Common side effects (<5% incidence) appear underreported but are thought to be limited. Rare side effects (<1%) and specific drug interactions may occur, but extensive human data remains scarce. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to insufficient safety data.
Dosage
The effective dosage for Schisandra chinensis is not well-defined in humans, but traditional uses suggest 1-3 grams of dried fruit per day. Animal studies indicate doses from 100-500 mg/kg body weight show promise. There is no specific timing recommendation, but consistency in daily use is valued. Various forms like capsules, teas, or traditional preparations are available, with absorption potentially enhanced when taken with fatty meals. No specific required cofactors exist aside from maintaining a balanced diet and hydration.
FAQs
Is Schisandra chinensis safe to take?
Generally regarded as safe, but users should be mindful of potential drug interactions and consult healthcare providers, especially when on other medications.
When should I take Schisandra chinensis?
There are no specific timing recommendations; consistency in daily dosing is encouraged.
What benefits can I expect from Schisandra chinensis?
Expected benefits include improved renal function, reduced inflammation, and potential neuroprotective effects, though these require further validation through human trials.
Can Schisandra chinensis cure health conditions?
It is not a cure-all; its benefits should be utilized under professional guidance, particularly for chronic health issues.
Research Sources
- https://www.dovepress.com/mechanistic-study-of-schisandra-chinensis-fruit-mixture-based-on-netwo-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-DDDT – This study investigates the mechanism of Schisandra chinensis fruit mixture in diabetic kidney disease via network pharmacology and molecular docking. Results show improved renal function and reduced inflammation in DKD rats, emphasizing the regulation of the AGEs/RAGE pathway.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2022/6362617 – This research highlights the potential of Schisandra chinensis and Acorus tatarinowii in treating Alzheimer’s disease through network pharmacology and metabolomics analysis, proposing relevant therapeutic mechanisms despite the lack of human data.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33919588/ – A comprehensive review consolidating findings on Schisandra chinensis fruit extracts showcases their antioxidant and protective properties against oxidative stress, inflammation, and cancer. However, the review lacks systematic analysis, suggesting the need for further research.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.816036/full – This article discusses the bioactive compounds present in Schisandra chinensis, highlighting its potent antioxidant properties and implications for anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, though emphasizing that studies primarily involve in vitro and animal models.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/15/3159 – This summary reviews the antiproliferative and antiviral effects of Schisandra chinensis active compounds, advocating for more research focused on the clinical applications of its bioactive profile in human contexts.
