Schisandra chinensis extract is produced from the dried fruit of Schisandra chinensis (wu wei zi, five-flavor berry) through ethanol-water extraction. The extract is rich in dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, including schisandrin, schisandrin B, schisandrol A, and deoxyschisandrin.
Schisandra is one of the premier adaptogens in traditional Chinese medicine, used to tonify all five organ systems and enhance mental and physical performance. Modern research confirms its hepatoprotective, antioxidant, cognitive-enhancing, and anti-fatigue properties, partly through modulation of the Nrf2 pathway and Phase I/II liver enzymes. Commercially, it is used in liver support supplements, adaptogenic formulations, and cognitive performance products.