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Schisandra

(Schisandra chinensis)
Also know as Magnolia vine

Botanical Information

A deciduous woody vine, related to the magnolias with bright red berries from the forests of northern China.

Working with Schisandra

Part(s) Used

Fruit

Herb Forms

Tincture, capsule, bulk herb

Christopher Hobbs:

“Because of its balanced flavor, containing all 5 flavors (sweet, sour, bitter, acrid, salty), schisandra fruits are recommended for mild digestive or liver disorders, especially when caused by stress or overwork. It is also used for people who are recovering from illness or who have depressed adrenal function due to stress. In Chinese medicine schisandra is used to nourish the adrenals, as an astringent for diarrhea and frequent urination, and to control sweating.
Schisandra is often blended with other “adaptogenic” herbs like eleuthero.

Schisandra has a taste of SOUR, ASTRINGENT and a temperature of WARM.”

Historical Uses

  • Traditional Medicine: Schisandra has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a “Five-flavor fruit” (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and pungent), believed to strengthen the body’s resistance to stress, enhance energy, and improve overall vitality. It has also been employed to support liver function and treat ailments like coughs and chronic fatigue.

Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists and Naturopaths:

  • Adaptogen: Known for balancing body systems, improving energy, and enhancing endurance.
  • Liver Support: Used to detoxify and protect the liver, especially in cases of liver inflammation or damage.
  • Stress and Fatigue: Often recommended to boost mental clarity, reduce stress, and enhance stamina.
  • Immune System: Used to boost immunity and prevent illness.
  • Cognitive Health: Improves mental focus and alertness.

Chemistry and Pharmacology

  • Active Compounds: Schisandra contains lignans, such as schisandrin, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective properties. Other compounds include essential oils, organic acids, and vitamins (C and E).
  • Mechanisms of Action: Schisandra’s lignans are thought to modulate several biological pathways, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. They may protect against oxidative stress and improve liver detoxification processes.

Clinical Trials

  • Liver Protection: Several clinical trials have shown that Schisandra extracts can improve liver function and reduce liver damage from toxins, especially in chronic liver diseases.
  • Mental and Physical Performance: Studies suggest improvements in mental clarity, cognitive performance, and physical endurance, supporting its use as an adaptogen.
  • Stress Reduction: Some trials report beneficial effects in reducing stress and improving mood, especially during periods of high mental or physical exertion.
  • Antioxidant Effects: Clinical studies highlight Schisandra’s antioxidant properties, showing promise in protecting against oxidative stress-related diseases.

Conclusion

Schisandra is a versatile herb with a rich history in traditional medicine, primarily used for its adaptogenic, liver-protective, and anti-fatigue effects. Modern research supports many of these uses, though further clinical trials are needed to solidify its therapeutic benefits. When used appropriately, it is generally safe, with minimal side effects.

Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs

 

Cautions

Generally considered safe when used appropriately. Possible mild side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Rarely, it may cause mild skin rashes or headaches. Contraindications: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, and those with certain liver conditions (e.g., cirrhosis) should avoid its use without professional advice. Drug Interactions: Schisandra may interact with certain medications, especially those metabolized by the liver, such as cytochrome P450-based drugs. Dosages depend on the form of the product and the condition being treated. A few reports of appetite suppression, stomach upset, and urticaria are recorded.

Conditions treated with Schisandra

Condition

Treatment Support

Application

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Condition

Treatment Support

restorative

Application

tincture, tea, capsule

Condition

Treatment Support

astringent

Application

tincture, capsule, tea

Dosages

Powdered Extract

(standardized) 500 mg to 1,500 mg daily

Tincture

1-3 ml daily

Capsules

follow label instructions

Decoction

1 cup 2 times daily

The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.

The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.

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