Renowned for its potential to address various conditions and promote well-being, Schisandra is a versatile herb known for its complex flavors and remarkable health benefits. From potential anti-cancer and anti-diabetic properties to antimicrobial effects and anti-aging potential, Schisandra offers a tantalizing glimpse into the world of herbal remedies.
-
Schisandra chinensis is a well-known herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is commonly referred to as "wu wei zi" or the "five-flavored fruit."
-
The potential health benefits of Schisandra are numerous, including anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, and anti-aging properties.
-
Schisandra is a versatile herb that can be consumed in different forms, such as berries, powder, and capsules.
-
Initial findings indicate that Schisandra possesses remarkable properties — but further research is required to verify its potential.
-
Consult a healthcare professional before using Schisandra, especially you take medications or are pregnant or breastfeeding, as there may be potential side effects to consider.
Schisandra overview
Dating back over 2,500 years, Schisandra has held a special place in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its remarkable ability to "prolong life without aging." In modern TCM, this versatile herb addresses a wide range of conditions, such as cough, shortness of breath, urinary issues, diarrhea, sweating, thirst, palpitations, and insomnia. These traditional uses underscore the significant role of Schisandra in promoting health and well-being.
Native to China, Schisandra belongs to the Schisandraceae family. The two main species used interchangeably in TCM and herbal medicine are Schisandra chinensis, the "northern" Schisandra, and S. sphenanthera, the "southern" Schisandra.
Schisandra is a plant that undergoes an enchanting transformation throughout the seasons. In spring and summer, it produces delicate white flowers, while in summer and fall, it is adorned with vibrant red berries. This fruit has a lot of history behind it, but what's even more impressive is its unique and delicious taste. Known as "wu wei zi" in Traditional Chinese Medicine, it's called the "five-flavor fruit and seed" because of its perfect balance of sweet, sour, pungent, bitter, and salty flavors.
Schisandra extract (SCE) finds practical use as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer in the food industry. Now, scientific studies are uncovering the potential health benefits of Schisandra, including cancer prevention, regulation of blood sugar levels, antibacterial properties, and anti-aging effects.
Potential health benefits of Schisandra
More research is required to comprehend the workings of Schisandra's effects completely, but initial studies indicate that Schisandra extract offers several possible health advantages.
Anti-cancer
Schisandra shows promise in fighting cancer by inhibiting tumor growth, preventing its spread, and supporting normal cell function. It acts as an antioxidant, protecting against harmful substances and promoting the production of reactive oxygen species that can cause cancer cells to die. By controlling cell cycles and limiting cell division, Schisandra compounds have the potential to slow down or halt cancer progression.
Anti-diabetic
Schisandra chinensis extract (SCE) holds the potential to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes. It blocks enzymes responsible for releasing excess glucose, improves the function of insulin-producing cells, and offers antioxidant protection against high glucose levels. Additionally, SCE enhances insulin sensitivity, promotes glucose uptake in peripheral tissues, and reduces harmful substances associated with elevated blood sugar. Studies on rats have demonstrated its effectiveness in lowering blood sugar, making it a promising treatment for managing diabetes-related complications.
Anti-bacterial
Schisandra extract exhibits antimicrobial properties, effectively combating harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and Bacillus cereus. It can also hinder the growth of certain infections. Notably, Schisandra extract not only fights off harmful bacteria but also supports the growth of beneficial bacteria, contributing to overall health and balance in the body's microbial ecosystem.
Anti-aging
The extract from Schisandra chinensis has shown promise in fighting the effects of aging. It protects skin cells from oxidative damage and may help prevent skin aging caused by oxidative stress. Schisandra extract also demonstrates a protective effect against cartilage degradation in joint diseases like osteoarthritis. In muscle cells, the extract increases muscle mass, promotes protein synthesis, and reduces protein degradation, which can help counteract age-related muscle loss.
Additionally, Schisandra extract helps your cells produce more energy, leading to better brain function and improved thinking abilities. While these findings suggest promising anti-aging properties, further research is necessary to understand its impact on human aging and age-related conditions fully.
Additional health benefits
Schisandra may also have additional health benefits, such as supporting liver health, promoting adaptogenic properties for stress management, and improving respiratory health. However, further research is needed to fully understand all of the potential health benefits that Schisandra may offer.
How to take Schisandra
Schisandra is available in different forms, including berries, powder, and capsules. To incorporate Schisandra into your routine, you can try:
- Schisandra berries. Add them to smoothies, teas, or homemade jams for a natural and flavorful boost.
- Schisandra powder. Mix it into juices, yogurt, or oatmeal, providing a convenient way to enjoy its benefits.
- Schisandra capsules. Can be found in various health food stores, herbal shops, and online retailers specializing in herbal supplements.
Schisandra dosages and regulations
When taking Schisandra, it's important to follow recommended dosages. The suggested daily dosage ranges from 2 to 6 grams, according to the Pharmacopoeia of the People's Republic of China, and 1.5 to 6.0 grams of dried fruits, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Schisandra is permitted in dietary supplements in the United States under FDA regulations. In the European Union, Schisandra berries can be used in food, but certain claims may need authorization.
Schisandra safety considerations
The research data on Schisandra is considered preliminary, meaning much still needs to be researched to confirm the potential health benefits and side effects.
Side effects
Minor adverse effects like heartburn, acid indigestion, stomach pain, loss of appetite, allergic skin reactions, and hives have been reported.
Precautions
Schisandra fruit may sedate the central nervous system, so it should not be taken with sedatives or alcohol.
It can also impact liver enzymes that metabolize drugs. While specific drug interactions have not been reported, you should consult a healthcare provider before combining Schisandra with prescription medications.
Additionally, using Schisandra fruit during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended due to limited safety data.
While Schisandra shows promising potential in traditional medicine and preliminary research, further studies are needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action, confirm its benefits, and evaluate its long-term safety. Schisandra is an intriguing herb worth keeping an eye on as scientific knowledge evolves.
4 resources
- Pharmacognosy Communication. Schisandra chinensis, Five Flavor Berry, a Traditional Chinese Medicine and a Super-Fruit from North Eastern China.
- Nutrients. Potential of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill. in Human Health and Nutrition: A Review of Current Knowledge and Therapeutic Perspectives.
- Frontiers in Pharmacology. A Comprehensive Review of the Main Lignan Components of Schisandra chinensis (North Wu Wei Zi) and Schisandra sphenanthera (South Wu Wei Zi) and the Lignan-Induced Drug-Drug Interactions Based on the Inhibition of Cytochrome P450 and P-Glycoprotein Activities.
- American Botanical Counsel. Schisandra.
Your email will not be published. All fields are required.