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Promotes endocrine balance. Schisandra may have a
protective effect on the liver,
 reducing
toxicity in its antioxidant function.
It may also help stimulate the immune response of the
body. However, long-term scientific studies on humans are still lacking to
fully support Schisandra.
Historical or traditional
use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies): A classical
treatise on Chinese herbal medicine, Shen Nung Pen Tsao Ching, describes
schisandra as a high-grade herbal drug useful for a wide variety of medical
conditions—especially as a kidney tonic and lung astringent. In addition,
other textbooks on Traditional Chinese Medicine note that schisandra is
useful for coughs, night sweats, insomnia, thirst, and physical exhaustion.2
Adaptogenic herbs, like schisandra, have been used in Traditional Chinese
Medicine to improve the ability of the body to respond to stress.
Active constituents: The major constituents in schisandra are lignans
(schizandrin, deoxyschizandrin, gomisins, and pregomisin) found in the seeds
of the fruit. Modern Chinese research suggests these lignans have a
protective effect on the liver and an immunomodulating effect. Two human
trials completed in China (one double-blind and the other preliminary) have
shown that schisandra may help people with chronic viral hepatitis.3 4
Schisandra lignans appear to protect the liver by activating the enzymes in
liver cells that produce glutathione, an important antioxidant substance.5
Schisandra fruit may also have an adaptogenic action, much like the herb
Asian ginseng, but with weaker effects. Laboratory work suggests that
schisandra may improve work performance, build strength, and help to reduce
fatigue.6
How much is usually taken? Use of schisandra fruit ranges from 1.5–15 grams
per day.7 The tincture, 2–4 ml three times per day, can also be used.
Are there any side effects or interactions? Side effects involving
schisandra are uncommon but may include abdominal upset, decreased appetite,
and skin rash.8
Large doses can cause restlessness, insomnia or
difficulties in breathing. It can also reverse any possible protective or stimulatory
effects and result in toxicity of the liver and a depressed immune system. Do not take
schizandra if you have liver disease.
Are there any drug interactions? Certain medications may interact with
schisandra. Refer to the drug interactions safety check for a list of those
medications.
References:
1. Leung AY, Foster S.
Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs, and
Cosmetics, 2d ed. New York: John Wiley & Sons, 1996, 469–72.
2. Shu HY.
Oriental Materia Medica: A Concise Guide. Palos Verdes, CA: Oriental
Healing Arts Press, 1986, 624–5.
3. Liu KT. Studies on fructus Schizandrae chinensis. Annex 12: Studies on
fructus Schizandrae chinensis. Plenary lecture, World Health Organization
(WHO) Seminar on the Use of Medicinal Plants in Health Care, Sept 1977,
Tokyo, Japan. In: WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific, Final Report,
November 1977, Manila, 101–12.
4. Chang HM, But P (eds).
Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Materia Medica 1. Singapore:
World Scientific, 1986.
5. Ip SP, Poon MKT, Wu SS, et al. Effect of schisandrin B on hepatic
glutathione antioxidant system in mice: Protection against carbon
tetrachloride toxicity. Planta Med 1995;61:398–401.
6. Foster S, Yue CX. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West.
Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 146–52.
7. Foster S, Yue CX. Herbal Emissaries: Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West.
Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 1992, 146–52.
8. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, et al.
American Herbal Product Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca
Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997, 104.
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