Skip to main content
Supplement ScienceSupplementScience

Schisandra Side Effects & Safety

Evidence:Emerging
·

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 heartburn or gastric discomfort
  • Skin rash in rare cases
  • Decreased appetite at higher doses
  • Generally very well-tolerated

Drug & Supplement Interactions

  • May affect CYP3A4 metabolism — potential interaction with many medications
  • May interact with anticoagulant drugs
  • May enhance effects of hepatotoxic drugs (protective effect but consult provider)
  • Avoid during pregnancy (traditional contraindication)

Maximum Dose

Do not exceed: 1500mg extract daily (traditional use of raw berries may be higher)

Full Schisandra 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. RCTAslanyan G, Amroyan E, Gabrielyan E, et al. (2010). Double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised study of single dose effects of ADAPT-232 on cognitive functions. Phytomedicine. DOI PubMed
  3. Meta-analysisHuang BH, Lv BH, Wu DJ, Xiong FY, et al. (2025). Efficacy of Schisandra chinensis in liver injury: a systematic review and preclinical meta-analysis.. Frontiers in pharmacology. DOI PubMed
  4. Lee AR, Kim SH, Cho H, Wang YQ, et al. (2025). Supplementation effects of feed additive containing eggshell, Schisandra chinensis by-products combined with multi-probiotics strains in laying hens.. Journal of animal science and technology. DOI PubMed
  5. RCTKim DS, Baek HI, Ha KC, Cha YS, et al. (2022). Efficacy and Safety of Omija (Schisandra chinensis) Extract Mixture on the Improvement of Hyperglycemia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.. Nutrients. DOI PubMed
  6. RCTKarosanidze I, Kiladze U, Kirtadze N, Giorgadze M, et al. (2022). Efficacy of Adaptogens in Patients with Long COVID-19: A Randomized, Quadruple-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland). DOI PubMed
  7. Cho YH, Lee SY, Lee CH, Park JH, et al. (2021). Effect of Schisandra chinensis Baillon extracts and regular low-intensity exercise on muscle strength and mass in older adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.. The American journal of clinical nutrition. DOI PubMed
Show 4 more references
  1. Park J, Han S, Park H (2020). Effect of Schisandra Chinensis Extract Supplementation on Quadriceps Muscle Strength and Fatigue in Adult Women: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.. International journal of environmental research and public health. DOI PubMed
  2. Laidlaw M, Cockerline CA, Sepkovic DW (2010). Effects of a breast-health herbal formula supplement on estrogen metabolism in pre- and post-menopausal women not taking hormonal contraceptives or supplements: a randomized controlled trial.. Breast cancer : basic and clinical research. DOI PubMed
  3. Schutgens FW, Neogi P, van Wijk EP, van Wijk R, et al. (2009). The influence of adaptogens on ultraweak biophoton emission: a pilot-experiment.. Phytotherapy research : PTR. DOI PubMed
  4. Greenlee H, Atkinson C, Stanczyk FZ, Lampe JW (2007). A pilot and feasibility study on the effects of naturopathic botanical and dietary interventions on sex steroid hormone metabolism in premenopausal women.. Cancer epidemiology, biomarkers & prevention : a publication of the American Association for Cancer Research, cosponsored by the American Society of Preventive Oncology. DOI PubMed