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.

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

🧘Stress & Anxiety⚡Energy
Last reviewed: 2026-03-11

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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