Evidence supporting the use of: Schisandra
For the health condition: Cirrhosis of the Liver
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, particularly as a remedy for liver-related disorders. In traditional practice, Schisandra is classified as a hepatoprotective herb, meaning it is believed to protect the liver from damage and improve its function. Historical texts and formulations, such as those found in the Shennong Bencao Jing, describe its use for chronic hepatitis and other liver ailments, which could include what is now understood as cirrhosis. The berries are reputed to "nourish the liver" and "replenish vital energy," and Schisandra is often found in traditional formulas alongside other hepatoprotective herbs. Modern scientific studies on Schisandra’s effect specifically on cirrhosis in humans are limited. Some preclinical studies demonstrate that active compounds in Schisandra (notably lignans like schisandrin) may have hepatoprotective, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects in animal models of liver injury, and there is limited evidence suggesting it may help reduce fibrosis in some experimental settings. However, robust clinical trials in humans with cirrhosis are lacking. Thus, while traditional use is well-documented and supported by some early mechanistic research, evidence for efficacy in cirrhosis is not strong by modern scientific standards.
Other ingredients used for Cirrhosis of the Liver
alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)artichoke
astaxanthin
branched-chain amino acids
bupleurum falcatum
burdock
caterpillar mushroom
turmeric
curcumin
dandelion
flavonols
garlic bulb
ginger
green tea
Indian tinospora
l-glutathione
licorice root
liquid liver fractions
milk thistle
n-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)
oleanolic acid
phospholipids
quercetin
reishi mushroom
resveratrol
selenium
silymarin
spirulina
vitamin B
vitamin E
seaweed
zinc
sarsaparilla
punarnava
picrorhiza kurroa
buckthorn
morus
dodder
ganoderma
goji berry
Antrodia camphorata
Borotutu
Bael
bile acid
Boerhavia diffusa
Coriolus mushroom
Curcuminoid
Cynarin
Cowherb
Eupolyphaga sinensis
Other health conditions supported by Schisandra
Adrenal FatigueAlcoholism
Alzheimer's Disease
Anxiety
Appetite (deficient)
Athletic and Exercise Aids
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cardiovascular Disease
Cirrhosis of the Liver
Colds (general)
Concentration (poor)
Convalescence
Depression
Diabetes
Digestion (poor)
Fatigue
Fatty Liver Disease
Fever
Free Radical Damage
Hangover
Hepatitis
Hypertension
Inflammation
Insomnia
Liver Detoxification
Memory and Brain Function
Menopause
Nervous Exhaustion
Pain (general remedies for)
Stress
Ulcers
Worry
Wounds and Sores