Schisandra: The Unique Adaptogenic Plant

Schisandra is a stimulating adaptogenic herb commonly used to build strength in people who feel chronic fatigue. It is rich in antioxidants and has many beneficial effects, especially on cognitive function, physical and mental stamina, and liver health.

Primary Key Points

Adaptogen for Stress and Depression: Schisandra balances the nervous system, reduces cortisol levels, and has antidepressant properties.

Cognitive Function Support: Schisandra enhances mental focus, attention, and cognitive function.

Liver Protection: Schisandra supports liver health by reducing liver enzymes, boosting antioxidants like glutathione, and preventing oxidative damage and inflammation.

What Is Schisandra

Schisandra is used in herbalism and is known as the “five-flavors” fruit.

It is generally considered a calming adaptogen and has a double effect on the nervous system. Besides being calming and helping to relieve anxiety, it also enhances concentration.

The plant is native to northeastern China, Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and the Far East part of Russia. Schisandra is used as an herbal supplement in traditional Chinese medicine. Meanwhile, in Russia, as a potent adaptogen, it improves disease and stress tolerance and increases energy, endurance, and physical performance. (1) (2)

Schisandra Combats Stress and Depression as an Adaptogen

Adaptogens help us adapt to stress by having a normalizing effect on bodily processes. They help reduce stress, fatigue, and mental exhaustion. (3)

Schisandra is a stimulating herb commonly used to build strength in people with chronic fatigue. It is also used to promote sleep in people with insomnia, especially when feeling stressed or anxious. That’s because it balances the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. (4)

Schisandra has been found to reduce cortisol levels and effectively control changes in serotonin and adrenaline caused by stress. This adaptogenic berry also fights the adrenal fatigue that is linked to stress. (5)

Naturally, fighting off stress factors leads to antidepressant properties. An overview of research on Schisandra conducted in Russia concluded that Schisandra effectively treats psychiatric disorders, including depression. (6)

Schisandra and Cognitive Function

While it's not clear yet if Schisandra can be used directly to improve memory, there's enough evidence that it can help with mental focus and energy.

One study showed that a single dose of an herbal preparation containing Schisandra improved attention, cognition, and accuracy in 40 healthy women under stress. The brain-boosting benefits measured over a two-hour window after consumption were promising. (7)

Deoxyschizandrin and Schisandra components from Schisandra extract reversed memory impairment. In addition, they prevented degenerative changes in the brain, as seen in Alzheimer's disease and brain aging, and helped with brain health. (8)

Schisandra and Liver Protection

The Schisandra berry is a desirable candidate for liver protection. It is traditionally used to treat liver diseases such as hepatitis.

One study showed that in 45 patients with impaired liver function, combining Schisandra extract and sesamin reduced liver enzymes, boosted glutathione, suppressed oxidative damage and inflammation, and improved fatty liver. (9)

Thanks to Schisandra’s antioxidants, it helps maintain liver function while preventing damage. (10)

Safety and Side Effects

Schisandra is generally a well-tolerated herb. However, it’s not recommended for people who have epilepsy and peptic ulcers. It’s also not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.

If you have a specific condition or are on medication, it’s always important to consult your doctor first.

Conclusion

Schisandra Chinensis is a unique nootropic used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

It is rich in antioxidants and has many beneficial effects, primarily on cognitive function, physical and mental stamina, and liver health.

FAQ

What is Schisandra used for?

Schisandra is an adaptogen that reduces stress, improves cognitive function, and protects liver health. It is also known for its antidepressant properties and energy-boosting effects.

How does Schisandra help with stress?

Schisandra helps reduce cortisol levels in the body and balances the nervous system, effectively combating stress and mental fatigue. It also promotes better sleep, especially for those who are stressed or anxious.

Can Schisandra improve cognitive function?

Yes, Schisandra has been shown to improve mental focus, attention, and energy. It also helps protect against memory impairment and supports overall brain health.

Is Schisandra safe to use?

Schisandra is generally well-tolerated, but it’s not recommended for individuals with epilepsy, peptic ulcers, or pregnant and nursing women.