Schisandra

Also known as: Schisandra chinensis, five-flavor berry, Wu Wei Zi

Grade B — Moderate Evidenceherbadaptogen
500–2000 mgMorning (mild energizing effect). Consistent daily use for adaptogenic benefits.

Schisandra chinensis is an adaptogenic berry used in Traditional Chinese Medicine that contains unique lignans (schisandrins) with hepatoprotective and stress-modulating properties. Clinical research demonstrates improvements in physical and mental performance under stress, liver enzyme normalization, and enhanced endurance. It modulates cortisol, supports phase I and phase II liver detoxification, and exhibits antioxidant activity across multiple organ systems.

TL;DR: Adaptogen with liver-protective properties and military/Olympic athlete research for stress performance. CYP3A4 interactions are significant.

🧘Stress & Anxiety⚡Energy
Last reviewed: 2026-03-12

Quick Facts

Evidence

Grade B

Studies

2

Interactions

2

Forms

1

Evidence Rating: Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Some RCTs with positive results, or strong observational evidence. More research may refine our understanding.

Cycling Protocol

6 weeks on/2 weeks off

Adaptogen cycling protocol to maintain hepatoprotective and anti-fatigue benefits

Interaction Warnings

CYP3A4 substrates (cyclosporine, tacrolimus)High Risk

Significant CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibition; may dramatically increase drug levels

WarfarinModerate

May affect coagulation; monitor INR

Important Notes

  • CYP3A4 inhibition is significant — review ALL concurrent medications
  • Avoid in peptic ulcer disease
  • Avoid in pregnancy

Clinical Evidence (2 studies)

Evidence-based efficacy of adaptogens

Panossian A, Wikman G (2008) — Phytother Res

Review of 1,062 studies: schisandra effective for fatigue and stress

View on PubMed

Schisandra chinensis: systematic review

Nowak A et al. (2019) — Nutrients

Hepatoprotective, antifatigue, and adaptogenic evidence

View on PubMed

Alternatives to Consider

These supplements target similar goals and may be worth considering alongside or instead of Schisandra.

Ashwagandha

Grade A

Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.

🧘 Stress & Anxiety⚡ Energy

Rhodiola Rosea

Grade B

Adaptogenic herb with strong evidence for reducing stress-related fatigue. Comparable to low-dose antidepressants for mild depression.

⚡ Energy🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Tongkat Ali

Grade C

Southeast Asian herb with emerging evidence for cortisol reduction and hormonal support.

⚡ Energy🧘 Stress & Anxiety

Related Supplements

Ashwagandha

Grade A — Strong Evidence

Ayurvedic adaptogen with strong clinical evidence for cortisol reduction (15-30%), stress relief, and exercise performance.

Rhodiola Rosea

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Adaptogenic herb with strong evidence for reducing stress-related fatigue. Comparable to low-dose antidepressants for mild depression.

Tongkat Ali

Grade C — Preliminary

Southeast Asian herb with emerging evidence for cortisol reduction and hormonal support.

Holy Basil (Tulsi)

Grade B — Moderate Evidence

Ayurvedic adaptogen with evidence for stress reduction and blood glucose stabilization. Gentle daily-use herb.

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⚕️ Important Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you take medications or have health conditions.

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