Evidence supporting the use of: Schisandrins
For the body system: Cortisol

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Schisandrins are lignan compounds found in the fruit of Schisandra chinensis, a plant widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. Recent scientific studies have investigated the adaptogenic properties of Schisandra extracts, including their potential effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and cortisol regulation. Several animal studies suggest that Schisandrins may reduce stress-induced elevation of cortisol and modulate stress responses, possibly through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. For example, some rodent models have shown that Schisandra extracts can attenuate increases in plasma corticosterone (the rodent equivalent of cortisol) following stress exposure. Limited in vitro research also indicates that Schisandrins might influence glucocorticoid receptor activity.

However, direct human clinical evidence for Schisandrin supplementation reducing or "supporting" cortisol levels is sparse. Most available trials have focused on fatigue, endurance, or liver protection rather than specifically measuring cortisol modulation in humans. Therefore, while there is a plausible scientific rationale based on preclinical research and some adaptogenic effects observed in traditional use, robust clinical trials validating Schisandrins as a cortisol-support agent in humans are lacking. The evidence is promising but insufficient for strong endorsement, warranting a moderate-low rating (2 out of 5).

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