Evidence Level
Schisandra berry has a well-established pharmacological profile for liver protection. Ip et al. (1996) provided key evidence for schisandrin B's hepatoprotective effects, showing dose-dependent reductions in liver enzymes in chemical injury models. Panossian and Wikman (2008) published a comprehensive review establishing schisandra's dual induction of Phase I and Phase II detoxification enzymes, a mechanism that accelerates toxin clearance. Ko et al. (1995) demonstrated that schisandrin B increases hepatic glutathione levels, providing an antioxidant defense mechanism. The Chinese Pharmacopoeia and Korean Pharmacopoeia both include Schisandra chinensis as an official hepatoprotective medicine. While most evidence comes from preclinical studies and traditional use, the pharmacological mechanisms are well-characterized and multiple clinical studies from Asian medical literature support its use.