Schisandra, cautions

Contraindications/ Cautions:In TCM, Schisandra is contraindicated in the early stages of cough or rash and in excess heat patterns (acute ailments like colds, flu, fevers). Schisandra is contraindicated in Pregnancy except at birth. May assist Childbirth. (Bone, p.405)

Pregnancy: non-teratogenic effects

In one uncontrolled investigation, 20–25 drops of a tincture (70% ethanol) of the fruits were administered to pregnant women three times per day for 3 days. Induction of labor was observed after the second dose followed by an increase in active labor 2–3 hours after the initial induction.

The activity was most pronounced in women who had previously given birth. Shortened labor times were reported and no negative effects regarding blood pressure, elimination of the placenta, or postnatal health of mother and infant were observed . In another investigation, an increase in the amplitude of uterine contractions (28 mm compared with 5 mm in controls) and uterine tension was observed after subcutaneous administration of 0.1 ml/kg bw of a tincture of the fruits to pregnant rabbits. The activity was observed 1.5 hours after administration and persisted for 4 hours.

A study conducted on women living in the Bryansk region of Ukraine, near the site of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor accident, assessed the effects of adaptogen administration on the health status of developing fetuses in pregnant women exposed to constant low-level radiation. The symptoms of placental insufficiency improved, fetal protein status was

stabilized, obstetric complications were reduced, and the health status of the newborn infants was improved. No substantiating data were provided in this report, and no information regarding the preparations or dosages administered or the effect of the preparation on uterine contractions was given.

Owing to a lack of further safety data regarding the effect of Schisandra on neonatal development, its use during pregnancy is not recommended ( (WHO-VOL3 pg 316)

Drug interactions

The fruits may have depressant effects on the central nervous system and should not therefore be used in conjunction with other CNS depressants, such as sedatives or alcohol. They have been shown to stimulate the activity of hepatic cytochrome P450. While no drug interactions have been reported, co-administration of prescription drugs metabolized through cytochrome P450, such as cyclosporin, warfarin, protease inhibitors, St John’s wort, estrogen and progesterone combinations, should only be undertaken under the supervision of a health-care provider, owing to the inductive effects of the fruits on phase I and II drug metabolizing enzymes.

Adverse reactions

Minor adverse effects such as heartburn, acid indigestion, stomach pain, anorexia, allergic skin reactions and urticaria have been reported.

Symptoms of overdose include restlessness, insomnia or dyspnea