Evidence supporting the use of: Schisandra chinensis
For the body system: Epinephrine

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Synopsis

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

Schisandra chinensis is a plant used extensively in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is classified as an adaptogen, believed to help the body resist physical, environmental, and emotional stressors. Its use in TCM is based on its reputed ability to "calm the spirit" and "tonify Qi," which may be interpreted as supporting the body’s general response to stress. While Schisandra has a long history in traditional systems for enhancing vitality and stress resilience, there is limited direct scientific evidence connecting Schisandra specifically to the modulation of the epinephrine (adrenaline) system. Some animal and in vitro studies suggest that Schisandra extracts can influence stress hormone levels, including cortisol and possibly catecholamines such as epinephrine, but these findings are preliminary and not yet well established in human trials. Most modern uses are extrapolated from its adaptogenic properties rather than clear mechanistic studies on the epinephrine system. Overall, Schisandra’s reputation for supporting stress response and resilience is primarily justified by tradition, with some emerging but limited scientific support.

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