Asian Traditional Medicine · Traditional Chinese Medicine

Omija (Schisandra chinensis, Korean)

Provisional Moderate Scorebotanical

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Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Omija (Schisandra chinensis) contains lignans like schisandrin B that enhance liver glutathione levels and cytochrome P450 detoxification enzymes. The adaptogenic compounds modulate cortisol response and support cognitive function through dopaminergic pathways.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryAsian Traditional Medicine

GroupTraditional Chinese Medicine

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordomija benefits

Omija close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in hepatoprotective, adaptogenic, antioxidant

Omija (Schisandra chinensis, Korean) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports liver health by enhancing detoxification enzymes

This can protect the liver from damage and improve its function. - Boosts immune function by increasing the production of white blood cells. This helps the body fend off infections more effectively. - Enhances mental performance by reducing stress-induced fatigue. This can improve focus and cognitive endurance. - Promotes cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This can lower the risk of heart disease. - Supports respiratory health by reducing inflammation in the airways. This can alleviate symptoms of asthma and allergies. - Improves skin health by increasing collagen production. This can lead to firmer and more youthful-looking skin. - Enhances mood by balancing neurotransmitter levels. This can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Omija, also known as Schisandra chinensis, is a fruit-bearing vine native to East Asia. The berries are harvested and dried for use in traditional medicine.

“Omija has been used in traditional Korean and Chinese medicine for centuries, valued for its five-flavor profile and its ability to balance the body's systems.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Studies have shown that Omija has hepatoprotective and adaptogenic effects, supported by both animal and human trials. It is recognized for its potential in enhancing liver health and reducing stress.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"carbohydrates": "12.3 g per 100 g", "protein": "1.5 g per 100 g", "fiber": "4.6 g per 100 g", "fats": "0.8 g per 100 g"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamin_C": "29 mg per 100 g", "vitamin_E": "0.5 mg per 100 g", "calcium": "90 mg per 100 g", "iron": "2.1 mg per 100 g", "potassium": "300 mg per 100 g", "magnesium": "30 mg per 100 g"}, "bioactive_compounds": {"schisandrin": "0.5 mg per 100 g", "gomisin": "0.3 mg per 100 g", "schisandrol": "0.2 mg per 100 g"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of schisandrin and other lignans in Omija is enhanced when consumed with dietary fats. Vitamin C content may degrade with prolonged storage or exposure to heat."}

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Schisandrin B and other dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans activate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), upregulating antioxidant enzymes like glutathione S-transferase. These compounds also modulate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity by regulating cortisol synthesis. Additionally, schisandrin C enhances dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the prefrontal cortex, improving cognitive performance.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

A randomized controlled trial with 130 hepatitis patients showed 400mg daily schisandra extract reduced ALT levels by 68% over 9 weeks. Cognitive studies with 64 participants demonstrated 1g daily improved accuracy on attention tasks by 15% within 2 weeks. However, most research uses small sample sizes (20-80 participants) and focuses on hepatitis patients rather than healthy adults, limiting generalizability.

Also Known As

Schisandra chinensisFive-flavor berryWu wei ziMagnolia vineChinese magnolia vineSchizandraFive-taste fruit

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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