Extracts from the fruits (seeds) of Schisandra chinensis L. are one of the components of medicinal preparations designed for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, liver diseases, diseases of the central nervous system related to the old age, as a supplement in the treatment of neoplasms, diabetes, etc. They are also used for the production of nutraceuticals (soft drinks and health foods), preparations for oral hygiene and for the care for the skin and hair.

Schisandra chinensis, originally a Japanese-Manchurian endemite, yields a vegetable drug (Schisandrae fructus) with a number of very utilizable therapeutic effects. Studies indicate schisandra has hepatoprotective, adaptogenic, and antioxidative capabilities. It is obvious that a very positive therapeutic effect based on the use of a complex mixture of its principal constituents because their biological effects are complementary and potentiate each other. At the same time, some lignans (e.g. gomisin A, gomisin N) are interesting as new prospective medicines.

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Components of Schisandra
Some of the active ingredients in schisandra include dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, schizandrin, wuweizisu A, B, C;wuweizichun A, B; wuweizi ester and schisanhenol.

Properties of Schisandra
Antioxidant and liver protection -- Previous studies in our laboratory have demonstrated the effect of Schisandrin B (Sch B), an active ingredient of the fruit of Schisandra chinensis, on enhancing the hepatic glutathione antioxidant system in mice, as evidenced by the hepatoprotection against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) toxicity. Our results strongly suggest that the mechanism of hepatoprotection afforded by Sch B treatment may involve the enhancement of mitochondrial glutathione redox status.
Protection of brain cells-- Dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from schisandra chinensis may possess therapeutic potential against oxidative neuronal damage induced by excitotoxins.

Schisandra health benefits according to traditional use
Schisandra is an overall tonic that, according to Traditional Chinese Medicine, is used to treat the following conditions. Scientific proof is still lacking for these claims and future research will give us additional clues.

Imbalanced fluid levels. Because of its kidney tonic effect, schisandra is useful in treating thirst, night sweats, excessive sweating, urinary incontinence , and the frequent urge to urinate.

Circulatory disorders. Schisandra may be used to treat poor circulation and poor heart function.

Intestinal disease. Schisandra has been used to treat diarrhea and dysentery.

Fatigue. Schisandra may help to reduce fatigue, improve endurance, improve work performance, and build strength. It is recommended for persons who need high levels of energy, such as athletes.

Liver disease. Schisandra is used to treat hepatitis and poor liver function. In one clinical study, schisandra successfully treated 76% of the patients with hepatitis. It has been shown to improve both virally and chemically induced hepatitis.

Mental and emotional illness. Schisandra has been shown to improve mental clarity, concentration, and coordination. It reduces forgetfulness, irritability, and nervous exhaustion. Schisandra is used to treat stress and may be part of a useful treatment for depression.

Respiratory disease and disorder. Schisandra is used to treat allergies. It treats respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath, chronic cough, and wheezing.

Sensory organ failure. Schisandra has been used to help improve failing sight and hearing. It enhances the sensation of touch.

Sexual disorder. Schisandra tones the sexual organs of both men and women. It increases the production of sexual fluids, improves male sexual stamina, and treats premature ejaculation and low sex drive.

Skin rash. Schisandra has been used to treat skin conditions, including hives and eczema.

Sleep disorder. Because of its adaptogenic properties, schisandra can relieve insomnia and dream-disrupted sleep.

Miscellaneous. Schisandra counteracts respiratory paralysis caused by morphine overdose, and strengthens uterine contractions to promote healthy labor and childbirth.

Schisandra Research Update
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