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Schisandra Berry Side Effects & Safety

Evidence:Moderate
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements about dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary — consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Safety Profile

Overall safety rating: Generally Safe

Potential Side Effects

  • Mild GI symptoms (heartburn, stomach upset, decreased appetite)
  • Rare skin rash or urticaria
  • May cause restlessness or insomnia in sensitive individuals (stimulant-like effects)
  • Very rare: decreased platelet aggregation at high doses

Drug & Supplement Interactions

  • Inhibits CYP3A4 — may increase blood levels of medications metabolized by this enzyme (statins, certain immunosuppressants, calcium channel blockers)
  • May potentiate the effects of anticoagulant/antiplatelet medications
  • May interact with drugs metabolized by CYP2C9 and CYP1A2
  • Caution with hepatotoxic medications — schisandra induces CYP enzymes which may alter drug metabolism unpredictably

Maximum Dose

Do not exceed: 3000mg extract/day or 9g dried berry/day

Full Schisandra Berry Guide

References

  1. ReviewPanossian A, Wikman G (2008). Pharmacology of Schisandra chinensis Bail.: An overview of Russian research and uses in medicine. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. DOI PubMed
  2. ObservationalGuo LY, Hung TM, Bae KH, Shin EM, Zhou HY, Hong YN, Kang SS, Kim HP, Kim YS (2008). Anti-inflammatory effects of schisandrin isolated from the fruit of Schisandra chinensis Baill. European Journal of Pharmacology. DOI PubMed